How to Make Tender, Flavorful Beef Neck Bones in the Crock Pot

Beef neck bones are an underrated cut that becomes incredibly tender and delicious when prepared in the slow cooker. Simmered for hours in a flavorful cooking liquid, these meaty bones transform into pull-apart tender with rich, beefy flavor.

The slow, moist heat of the crockpot helps break down the collagen in beef neck bones, resulting in meat so tender it falls right off the bone. The bones and cooking liquid meld into a rich gravy or sauce, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.

Cooking neck bones in the crock pot couldn’t be easier Simply prep the bones, toss in your favorite seasonings and aromatics, set it, and forget it In just 4-6 hours, you’ll have fork-tender beef in a savory gravy that makes an easy, satisfying one-pot meal.

Follow this simple guide to learn how to make the most delicious beef neck bones in the crock pot. We’ll provide tips for choosing the best neck bones, offer flavorful seasoning ideas, and share the easy method to create this comforting, old-fashioned dish.

Benefits of Cooking Beef Neck Bones in a Crock Pot

There are several advantages to using the slow cooker for beef neck bones

• Long cooking time ensures meat becomes extremely tender
• Gravy infuses with rich beef flavor
• Minimal hands-on prep time required
• Perfect weeknight set-it-and-forget it meal
• Makes the house smell amazing while cooking
• Keeps the meat hot and ready to serve for hours

The slow cooker does all the work for you. Just add the ingredients in the morning and dinner is ready when you get home!

Ingredients Needed

Cooking beef neck bones in the crock pot requires just a few simple ingredients

• Beef neck bones (about 2 pounds)
• Aromatics like onion, celery, garlic
• Seasonings – salt, pepper, herbs
• Liquid like broth, wine or water
• Potatoes, carrots or other veggies (optional)

Choose meaty neck bones with lots of collagen for the most tender results. Plan on 8-12 ounces of bones per person.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow this simple process for delicious beef neck bones every time:

Prep the Neck Bones

Rinse the neck bones under cold water and pat dry. Trim off any excess fat or silver skin. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Sauté the Aromatics (Optional)

For deeper flavor, sauté some chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened. This extra step adds savory caramelized notes.

Add to the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned neck bones into the crock pot and add the cooked aromatics. Pour in enough broth, wine or water to cover the bones by about 1 inch.

Season the Cooking Liquid

Flavor the liquid with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Add more salt, pepper, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce.

Cook on Low Heat

Cover and cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours. The longer they cook, the more tender the meat will become.

Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

For thicker gravy, whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and cold water during the last 30 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy!

Carefully remove the tender meat from the bones. Serve the beef and gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.

Flavorful Seasonings for Beef Neck Bones

• Onion, carrots, celery
• Garlic, ginger
• Tomato paste, ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Soy sauce, balsamic vinegar
• Bay leaves, thyme, rosemary
• Paprika, cumin, chili powder
• Beef broth or stock

Mix and match to customize the flavor profile!

Helpful Tips for Crock Pot Beef Neck Bones

• Sprinkle bones with a beef soup base for extra savory flavor
• Use red wine, beer, or coffee for richness
• Add cubed potatoes halfway through cooking
• Top with chopped parsley or green onions before serving
• Let pressure release before removing lid to prevent boiling over
• Skim excess fat from surface for healthier gravy

FAQs

How long should you cook beef neck bones in a crock pot?

Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls away from the bones.

What’s the best crock pot temperature for beef neck bones?

The low setting, around 200°F, works perfectly. High heat can cause the exterior to overcook.

Should you sear the meat first?

Browning isn’t required but does add richer flavor. Quickly sear in a hot pan before slow cooking.

What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?

Whisk together equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Stir into the hot gravy and cook for 5 more minutes until thickened.

Can you use a pressure cooker instead of a crockpot?

Yes, neck bones become tender in just 1-2 hours on high pressure. Use natural release to prevent boiling over.

Enjoy Deliciously Tender Beef Neck Bones

With minimal hands-on time, the crock pot does the work of transforming tough beef neck bones into fork-tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone. The bones and cooking liquid meld into a rich homemade gravy, perfect for serving over rice, potatoes, or pasta for a satisying rustic meal. Follow this easy method for guaranteed success!