Slow Cooker Beef Ribs

Slow cooker beef ribs are a versatile dish. Perfect as part of a classic backyard picnic or serve them over mashed potatoes for a dressed up dinner. A few extra steps, such as browning the ribs and bringing the sauce together in a skillet, enhances the depth of flavors. These slow cooker beef back ribs are full of mouth watering goodness from the rich sauce and tender from slow cooking. Enjoy!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Ribs

3 T. extra virgin olive oil, divided
3 lbs. beef back ribs, divided into single ribs
1 t. garlic powder
1 large shallot, chopped
½ cup beef broth
1 cup strained tomatoes (can substitute with canned crushed tomatoes)
¼ t. chipotle or chili powder (add more for spicy ribs)
1 t. dried oregano
2 T. real maple syrup
2 T. fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped (optional garnish)

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Ribs

1. Heat one tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and season the ribs with the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add half of the seasoned ribs to the hot skillet. Brown the ribs, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Once browned, transfer ribs from the skillet to a platter. Repeat process with the remaining ribs and an additional tablespoon of olive oil. Transfer the second batch of ribs to the platter once browned.
3. Pour remaining oil into the skillet and add the shallot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shallot softens and develops some color, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the beef broth and gently scraping the bottom of the skillet with a spatula to incorporate the flavorful brown bits into the liquid.
5. Add the strained tomatoes, chipotle powder, dried oregano, and maple syrup to the skillet. Season with additional salt and black pepper, if desired, and stir to combine. Cook, stirring frequently, for 1-2 minutes or until the sauce is heated through.
6. Transfer the browned ribs to a 6 quart or larger slow cooker crock and pour the tomato sauce mixture over the ribs. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours.
7. When cook time is complete, remove lid and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes. Spoon some of the sauce over the ribs or serve on the side as extra dipping sauce. Sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for added flavor. Enjoy!

Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Ribs

• Purchase meaty beef back ribs, not to be confused with beef short ribs.
• Do not overcook the ribs in the skillet, they just need a bit of browning to add extra flavor.
• Use a disposable slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. I use the liners from Reynolds, which can be found in most grocery stores or online.
• A short trip under the oven broiler or on the grill will crisp up the outside of the ribs for a more BBQ style dish.
• The ribs can be held in the slow cooker on the low or warm setting for picnic gatherings, buffets, or tailgating.
• If you like your ribs extra saucy, simply double the sauce ingredients or add some of your favorite BBQ sauce to the slow cooker near the end of cooking time.