Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short ribs are a delightful way to embrace the comforting flavors of slow cooking. This recipe combines rich beef short ribs with a tangy cranberry sauce, creating a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The slow cooker works its magic, transforming simple ingredients into a tender masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short

This Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short recipe is a winner for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Secondly, the slow cooker locks in flavors, resulting in tender, juicy beef short ribs that practically fall off the bone. You’ll also appreciate how the sweet-tangy cranberry sauce perfectly balances the savory notes of the beef. This dish is gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences, and is sure to impress your family and friends. With a cooking time of just 6 to 8 hours, it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy a hearty meal. Plus, leftovers make for a delightful cranberry beef stew in the slow cooker!

Ingredients for Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short

Gather these items:

4 pounds beef short ribs
Salt
Black pepper
1 can (14 ounces) whole berry cranberry sauce
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Fresh parsley

How to Make Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short Step-by-Step

Step 1: Select high-quality, well-marbled beef short ribs.
Step 2: Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry.
Step 3: Season the ribs generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté chopped onion for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add minced garlic to the onions and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Transfer the onion-garlic mixture to the crockpot.
Step 7: In a bowl, whisk together cranberry juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water.
Step 8: Pour the sauce over the short ribs in the crockpot.
Step 9: Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat for 6 to 8 hours.
Step 10: Carefully remove the short ribs from the crockpot when tender.
Step 11: Optional: thicken the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
Step 12: Serve the ribs on mashed potatoes or rice, garnished with parsley.

Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short Ribs for Comforting Meals - Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short

Keep these in mind:

Choose well-marbled beef for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Consider searing the ribs before adding them to the crockpot for an extra depth of flavor.
Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep; you can store leftovers for a quick lunch!

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short

There are many delightful ways to enjoy your Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short. Serve the tender ribs over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the luscious sauce. You can also pair them with steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Another great idea is to use the leftover short ribs to make a hearty cranberry beef stew in the slow cooker for a comforting lunch or dinner option.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short

To store your Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short, simply place the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. The ribs also freeze well, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short

What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short?

The key to perfect Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short is choosing high-quality beef and ensuring it cooks low and slow. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender meat that melts in your mouth.

Can I make Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before serving for a hassle-free meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcrowd the crockpot, which can lead to uneven cooking. Also, always taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.

Variations of Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider adding a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor or throwing in some root vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a complete meal. For a twist, you can substitute the beef with pork short ribs, which also pairs wonderfully with the cranberry sauce. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile dish!

Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short Ribs for Comforting Meals - Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil, Pappardelle with Beef Ragu, Mediterranean Chickpea Salad, Homemade Tomato Sauce, and Easy Cinnamon Rolls.

For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, you can visit Healthline.

Crockpot Cranberry Beef Short Ribs for Comforting Meals

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Indulge in the rich, tangy flavors of Crockpot cranberry beef short ribs. Slow-cooked to perfection, these tender ribs bathe in a luscious cranberry sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s ideal.

Author: Robert
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Total Time: 380 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

4 pounds beef short ribs
Salt
Black pepper
1 can (14 ounces) whole berry cranberry sauce
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Fresh parsley

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Instructions

Select high-quality, well-marbled beef short ribs.
Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry.
Season the ribs generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté chopped onion for 5 minutes.
Add minced garlic to the onions and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
Transfer the onion-garlic mixture to the crockpot.
In a bowl, whisk together cranberry juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, thyme, and water.
Pour the sauce over the short ribs in the crockpot.
Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat for 6 to 8 hours.
Carefully remove the short ribs from the crockpot when tender.
Optional: thicken the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
Serve the ribs on mashed potatoes or rice, garnished with parsley.