Name: Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs Bone-In Beef Short Ribs; 3 cups Baby Carrots; 2 cups Mushrooms, sliced; 2 cups Beef Broth; 1 cup Pomegranate Juice; 2 tbsp Tomato Paste; 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter; 1 Bay Leaf; 8 sprigs Fresh Thyme; 1 tbsp Garlic, minced; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like that this recipe brings together rich, deep flavors with very little effort. The slow cooker makes the beef short ribs tender and juicy while the vegetables soak up all the delicious broth. I don’t have to fuss over it all day, and when it’s ready, I have a dish that looks and tastes impressive. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, polenta, or even rice, which makes it easy to serve.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

3 Ibs Bone-In Beef Short Ribs
3 Cups Baby Carrots
2 Cups Mushrooms Sliced
2 Cups Beef Broth
1 Cup Pomegranate Juice
2 tablespoon Tomato Paste
3 tablespoon Unsalted Butter
1 Bay Leaf
8 Sprigs Fresh Thyme
1 tablespoon Garlic Minced
Salt To Taste
Pepper To Taste

Directions

I start by seasoning all sides of the short ribs with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, I brown each side of the short ribs, about 20 seconds per side.
Once browned, I add the short ribs, carrots, mushrooms, beef broth, pomegranate juice, tomato paste, butter, bay leaf, thyme, and garlic into the crockpot.
I cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the meat is falling off the bone.
When done, I remove the short ribs and vegetables, discarding the herbs but keeping the liquid.
I serve the short ribs immediately, usually with mashed sweet potatoes, and drizzle some of that rich cooking liquid over the top.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 6 servings. It takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 8 hours of cooking time, for a total of 8 hours and 10 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add rosemary or sage along with the thyme for extra depth. If I want a thicker sauce, I whisk together cornstarch and water, then stir it into the cooking liquid and simmer until it thickens like gravy. I also like swapping baby potatoes for the carrots for a heartier version.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave on high for 30–60 seconds or warm them gently on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use boneless short ribs instead?

Yes, I can use boneless short ribs, though they may cook a little faster and won’t have quite the same richness as bone-in.

Do I have to brown the short ribs first?

I like to brown them for extra flavor, but technically I can skip it if I’m short on time.

Can I make this recipe without broth?

Yes, I can use water instead of broth, though it won’t be as rich in flavor.

How do I thicken the sauce?

I whisk together cornstarch and water, then simmer it with the cooking liquid until it thickens.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, I can cook it on high for about 4–5 hours, but I prefer low and slow for more tender results.

What can I serve with these short ribs?

I usually serve them with mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, polenta, or even pasta to soak up the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I cook it the day before, then store and reheat. The flavors are often even better the next day.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, I freeze the cooled short ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat.

What cut of beef works best?

Bone-in short ribs work best, but I can also use chuck roast or beef shanks if I can’t find them.

How do I know when the short ribs are done?

They’re ready when the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

Conclusion

I love how these crockpot beef short ribs turn out every time—tender, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. They’re a stress-free way to make a meal that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a holiday, date night, or just a cozy family dinner, this dish always delivers.