As the chilly evenings draw in, I find solace in the aroma of slow-cooked meals wafting through my home. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort. Imagine falling into a cozy chair after a long day, savoring tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs nestled in a luxurious red wine sauce. This recipe is not only straightforward, making it perfect for those relaxed weekends, but it’s also the ultimate crowd-pleaser when entertaining friends or family. Plus, the slow-cooking technique allows you to go about your day while your meal gently simmers to perfection. Are you ready to indulge in this flavorful feast that’s sure to elevate your winter dining? Let’s get started!

Why are these short ribs a must-try?

Ultimate Comfort Food: A warm and hearty meal that wraps you in coziness with every bite.
Effortless Preparation: Simply set it and forget it—perfect for busy days or lazy weekends!
Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The deep flavors of red wine combined with herbs create a truly gourmet vibe.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress family and friends with dish that feels fancy yet is easy to make.
Versatile Pairings: Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up that decadent sauce! Get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night.

Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs Ingredients

For the Ribs
• Beef Short Ribs – Use bone-in for optimal flavor that melts in your mouth.
• Olive Oil – For searing the ribs, enhancing flavor; can substitute with canola oil.

For the Vegetables
• Carrot – Adds natural sweetness and texture; use fresh and finely chopped for even cooking.
• Onion – Provides a savory base; yellow or white onion work best, chopped finely.
• Garlic – Intense flavor that elevates the dish; minced cloves offer the freshest taste.

For the Sauce
• Tomato Paste – Adds depth and richness; substitute with tomato sauce if needed.
• Dry Red Wine – The heart of the sauce; adds acidity and complex flavor—swap with beef stock for a non-alcoholic version.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances savory umami flavor; it’s optional but recommended for complexity.
• Brown Sugar – Balances acidity with sweetness; can easily be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
• Smoked Paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness; regular paprika can be used for a milder flavor.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs adding depth; dried basil or oregano can serve as alternatives.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste, especially if using different types of salt.
• Fresh Thyme – An aromatic herb that elevates the flavor profile; dried thyme can be used in its place.

For Thickening the Sauce
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce; flour can work as an alternative if needed.

Now that you have all the essential ingredients for your Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, let’s move on to the mouthwatering cooking instructions that will make your home smell heavenly!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Step 1: Season Ribs
Start by lightly coating the beef short ribs with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage for robust flavor. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning, which will enhance the taste of your Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs.

Step 2: Sear Ribs
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned short ribs and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are beautifully browned. Transfer the seared ribs to a plate and set aside, allowing the skillet to retain its flavorful drippings for the next step.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped carrots and onions. Sauté them for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are tender and lightly browned. Then, mix in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, letting those delicious aromas fill your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine in Crockpot
Now, transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture directly into your Crockpot. Pour in the dry red wine, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and pepper, and fresh thyme. Stir everything together until well combined, preparing a wonderfully aromatic sauce for your short ribs.

Step 5: Add Ribs
Gently nestle the seared short ribs on top of the mixture in the Crockpot, laying them in a single layer. This will allow the flavors from the sauce to permeate the beef while cooking, ensuring each bite of your Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs is bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Cook
Cover the Crockpot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 5-6 hours. You’ll know it’s nearly time when the kitchen fills with delightful aromas, and the ribs are tender enough to fall apart with a fork.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce
Once the cooking time is complete, skim off any excess fat from the surface of the sauce. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the Crockpot and cook on high for an additional 5-10 minutes, watching as it thickens beautifully.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning
Finally, give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt or pepper. This sweet and savory finishing touch will elevate your decadent Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs before serving, ready to warm up your dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs are the perfect solution for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can season and sear the short ribs up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. Additionally, the vegetable mixture can be sautéed and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, preventing any last-minute rush. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the Crockpot and pour in the wine and seasonings as instructed. This method ensures the flavors meld beautifully, and you’ll still enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Fridge: Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s sealed well to maintain flavor and moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. It’s best to portion them beforehand for easy handling.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.

Serving Tip: When ready to serve, ensure the Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs are heated thoroughly to enhance their succulent flavors!

What to Serve with Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

As you prepare to indulge in this savory feast, imagine complementing those tender ribs with sides and drinks that elevate your dining experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture soaks up the rich red wine sauce, making each bite a comforting delight.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread serves as the perfect vehicle for savoring every drop of that decadent sauce, inviting everyone to indulge.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy exterior and slightly bitter taste contrast beautifully with the sweet richness of the short ribs, balancing the meal.
Egg Noodles: A classic pairing that absorbs the sauce wonderfully, creating a hearty base that amplifies the dish’s flavors.
Caesar Salad: The crunch from crisp romaine and the creaminess of Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the heavy ribs.
Red Wine: Pouring the same wine you used in the recipe complements the meal, enriching the flavors and ensuring a cohesive dining experience.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this warm, gooey treat provides a rich, sweet finish that echoes the luxuriousness of the main dish.

By choosing any of these delightful pairings, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that warms both heart and soul during chilly evenings.

Expert Tips for Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Don’t Skip Searing: This step adds a rich depth of flavor. Skipping it may leave your ribs tasting one-dimensional.
Low and Slow Wins: Cooking on low for 7-8 hours results in tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, making for the best Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to ensure your flavors shine through.
Fat Removal: Skimming fat after cooking ensures a cleaner, more appetizing sauce that won’t weigh down the dish.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap in fresh rosemary or bay leaves to personalize the flavor profile of your short ribs.

Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this comforting dish to suit your taste buds!

Beef Alternatives: Swap out the short ribs for beef chuck or brisket, cut into pieces, for a different texture and flavor.
Wine-Free Version: For a lighter recipe, reduce the amount of wine and increase the beef broth for a richer base. This is perfect for anyone avoiding alcohol but still craving depth.
Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or bay leaves alongside thyme for a more complex flavor profile that can elevate the dish to new heights.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the sauce while cooking for a subtly spicy kick that warms the soul.
Coffee Infusion: Incorporate a tablespoon of brewed coffee or espresso into the sauce for a unique depth of flavor that enhances the richness of the ribs.
Mushroom Add-In: Toss in some sliced mushrooms during the last hour of cooking; they’ll absorb the rich sauce and add an earthy note.
Sour Cream Finish: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top, providing a creamy contrast to the savory dish. It’s particularly delightful when paired with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, soaking up all the flavors.
Cooking Shortcut: If you’re short on time, try using a pressure cooker instead of the Crockpot—just follow the same ingredient steps but adjust the cooking time to about 60-70 minutes under high pressure for equally delicious results.

Don’t forget to serve your savory short ribs over a bed of perfectly creamy mashed potatoes or with a side of Jalapeno Party Ribs for a taste adventure that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs Recipe FAQs

What type of beef short ribs should I use?
Absolutely, for the best flavor and tenderness, use bone-in beef short ribs. The bones add richness to the sauce during cooking, and you’ll find that the meat falls right off the bone, creating that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

How do I store leftovers of Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs?
Cool the short ribs completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Be sure to seal them well to maintain their flavorful sauce!

Can I freeze the Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs?
Yes! Freeze the cooled short ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I recommend portioning them beforehand for easy reheating later. Just make sure to label the container with the date for reference.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin after cooking?
If you find the sauce is too runny after cooking, no worries! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the Crockpot and cook on high for an additional 5-10 minutes, watching it thicken beautifully!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that red wine may not be suitable for everyone. You can easily replace it with beef stock or a non-alcoholic red wine alternative. Additionally, be mindful of seasoning, as some may have specific dietary needs around salt or sugar.

What should I serve with my Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs?
Rich and tender Crockpot Red Wine Braised Short Ribs are best enjoyed over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles. They soak up the sauce deliciously, ensuring your meal is full of flavor with every bite!