Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce

If you’re craving a meal that’s simultaneously indulgent and effortless, then Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce is exactly what you need. This recipe delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef short ribs bathed in a deeply flavorful red wine reduction that’s rich, savory, and perfectly balanced. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these ribs make every bite unforgettable and every mealtime a celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work while you relax and enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen.
• Unbeatable tenderness: The long, slow braising process breaks down the ribs to achieve fall-off-the-bone goodness.
• Rich, complex flavors: The red wine sauce adds depth and a slight sweetness that complements the meaty ribs perfectly.
• Impressive yet simple: Despite the gourmet taste, this recipe uses straightforward steps and common ingredients.
• Perfect comfort food: Ideal for cooler days or whenever you want a warm, cozy meal that soothes the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce is in its straightforward ingredient list. Each element brings something vital to the dish’s flavor, texture, or color, making it both accessible and delicious.

• Beef short ribs: Choose meaty, well-marbled ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Red wine: Use a dry, full-bodied wine which enriches the sauce with fruity, earthy notes.
• Onions and garlic: These aromatics build a savory base that complements the meat beautifully.
• Carrots and celery: They add natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Tomato paste: Helps thicken the sauce and adds subtle acidity and umami.
• Beef broth: Keeps the ribs moist and enhances all the meaty flavors.
• Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary): Infuse herbal brightness that balances the rich sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors into harmony.
• Olive oil or vegetable oil: For searing the short ribs to lock in juices and develop a caramelized crust.

Variations for Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to tweak it to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences—the slow cooker adapts well to creativity!

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chipotle powder to the sauce for subtle heat.
• Vegetarian swap: Substitute short ribs with large portobello mushrooms for a meaty texture in a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Herb swaps: Use sage or oregano if you prefer a different herbal profile.
• Sweet note: Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to balance acidity with natural sweetness.
• Different wine: Try using a merlot or cabernet sauvignon for distinct flavor nuances.

How to Make Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs

Start by patting the ribs dry and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then brown the ribs on all sides until beautifully caramelized—this step creates depth and locks in juices.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and golden. Stir in minced garlic for a minute until fragrant—this base will elevate your sauce.

Step 3: Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour red wine into the skillet, scraping up all browned bits from the pan’s bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly and intensify its flavors.

Step 4: Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared ribs, sautéed vegetables, and wine mixture to the slow cooker. Add tomato paste, beef broth, and fresh herbs. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The ribs will become incredibly tender, and the sauce will thicken into a luscious coating.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Once done, remove the ribs and strain the sauce if desired, then simmer it on the stove to reduce and concentrate the flavors before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce

• Don’t skip searing: Browning the ribs adds a rich flavor that slow cooking alone can’t replicate.
• Use quality wine: Because the wine is a key flavor, select one you’d happily drink.
• Trim excess fat: Leaving some fat enhances taste but remove large chunks to avoid greasiness.
• Patience is key: The longer you cook it low and slow, the more tender and flavorful the ribs become.
• Strain or reduce sauce: For a sleek presentation, strain the sauce and simmer it down to thicken it up.
• Rest before serving: Let the ribs sit for a few minutes after cooking—this helps juices redistribute.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves over the ribs for a pop of color and freshness. A few slivers of lemon zest can add a bright contrast to the rich sauce.

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or buttery egg noodles perfectly soak up the luscious red wine sauce. Roasted root vegetables or sautéed green beans add texture and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the ribs atop a bed of garlic mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option or pile them over soft crusty bread for a hearty open-faced sandwich. For a celebratory twist, plate the ribs with a drizzle of reduced balsamic vinegar around the edges.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making excellent next-day meals.

Freezing

The ribs and sauce freeze beautifully. Store them in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers slowly in a saucepan over low heat to preserve tenderness and avoid drying out. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce thickens too much while reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of wine?

Yes! While dry red wines like cabernet sauvignon or merlot work best, you can experiment with pinot noir or zinfandel, which offer different flavor profiles but still complement the ribs beautifully.

Is it necessary to sear the short ribs?

Searing the ribs is highly recommended because it locks in juices and adds rich caramelized flavors that deepen the overall taste of the dish.

How long does it take to cook short ribs in a slow cooker?

Cooking time typically ranges between 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Cooking low and slow always produces the best tenderness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure your beef broth and tomato paste don’t contain gluten additives, and skip any thickening agents that might contain gluten.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce?

Consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, roasted vegetables, or even over buttered noodles to soak up all that amazing sauce.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Short Ribs with Red Wine Sauce is the kind of dish you’ll want to return to again and again. The ease of throwing ingredients into the slow cooker combined with the phenomenal flavors and tender meat makes it an undeniable crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, it’s sure to become one of your favorite recipes for cozy, comforting meals that feel like a special treat every time.

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