Ever wondered how to turn humble beef neck bones into an incredible, melt-in-your-mouth meal? Your crock pot is the secret weapon! Often overlooked, these budget-friendly cuts are packed with rich flavor and collagen, transforming into succulent, fall-off-the-bone deliciousness with the magic of slow cooking.
Cooking beef neck bones in a slow cooker is not only easy but guarantees tender results every time. It’s a hands-off method that fills your home with an amazing aroma and delivers a hearty, comforting dish that tastes like it simmered all day – because it did!
Contents
Why Your Slow Cooker is Perfect for Beef Neck Bones
Slow cooking is ideal for breaking down tough cuts like beef neck bones, making them incredibly tender. Here’s why it’s the best choice:
- Unbeatable Tenderness: Long, gentle cooking transforms tough connective tissues into gelatin, yielding ultra-tender meat.
- Rich, Savory Broth: The bones release collagen and marrow, creating a deeply flavorful and nourishing broth.
- Deep Flavor: Ingredients slowly meld, allowing flavors to develop and infuse every bite.
- Effortless: Simply prep, set, and let your slow cooker do all the work!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- Beef Neck Bones: 2-3 lbs, meaty ones preferred.
- Liquid: 6-8 cups water or beef broth for richer flavor.
- Veggies:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
- Seasonings:
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh sprigs)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes for extra zest.
- Cooking Oil: 1-2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil for searing.
Equipment:
- 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker
- Large skillet or Dutch oven (for searing)
Easy Steps to Delicious Crock Pot Beef Neck Bones
1. Prepare the Bones
Rinse beef neck bones under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Season generously all over with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear for Flavor (Recommended!)
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned neck bones for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. This step adds incredible depth of flavor! Transfer seared bones to your slow cooker.
3. Add Veggies & Seasonings
Layer the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery over the bones. Add bay leaves, thyme, and any optional flavor boosters you’re using.
4. Pour in Liquid
Pour 6-8 cups of water or broth over all the ingredients, ensuring the bones are mostly submerged. This will create a fantastic broth.
5. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Cook until the meat is incredibly tender and easily falls off the bone.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
Carefully remove the bones. Skim off any excess fat from the broth if desired. Shred the meat from the bones, discarding bones and fat. Return the shredded meat to the broth and vegetables. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve warm!
Tips for the Best Results
- Sear for Depth: Browning the meat before slow cooking adds a crucial layer of flavor.
- Ample Liquid: Enough liquid keeps the meat moist and creates a rich, usable broth.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure even cooking by not stuffing your slow cooker.
- Season Well: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance the natural flavors.
- Cook Until Fall-Off-The-Bone: Patience ensures ultimate tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
These tender beef neck bones are wonderful with:
- Mashed potatoes, rice, or grits to soak up the broth.
- Crusty bread or cornbread.
- A side of collard greens or other hearty vegetables.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I skip searing the beef neck bones?
A: Yes, you can! While searing adds a deeper, richer flavor and a nice crust, your dish will still be delicious and tender if you skip this step, especially if you’re short on time.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh vegetables?
A: Frozen chopped vegetables (like a mirepoix mix) work perfectly as a substitute. Dried spices can also replace fresh herbs if needed.
Q: How can I thicken the broth?
A: To thicken, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the hot broth during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can reduce the broth on the stovetop after removing the meat.
Q: Can I use other meats with this slow cooker method?
A: Absolutely! This recipe and method are fantastic for other tough, collagen-rich cuts like oxtail, short ribs, or stewing beef. Adjust cooking times as necessary for different cuts.
Q: Are beef neck bones healthy?
A: Yes! They’re rich in collagen, which supports joint health, and are a good source of protein and other nutrients. You can easily skim off any excess fat from the broth for a leaner dish.
Ready for a Hearty Meal?
Beef neck bones cooked in a crock pot are a testament to how simple ingredients and patient cooking can create an incredibly satisfying and flavorful meal. Embrace the ease and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of this often-underestimated cut. Happy cooking!