Print

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs
Print Recipe

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs offer a hands-off, flavorful dinner option with tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs glazed in a tangy, smoky barbecue sauce. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, this recipe combines simple ingredients and slow cooking to deliver juicy, richly seasoned ribs that pair wonderfully with classic sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 2–3 lbs Baby back ribs or spare ribs

Dry Rub

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Other Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs to ensure maximum tenderness. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat if needed to prepare for seasoning.
  2. Season the Ribs: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a dry rub. Evenly coat both sides of the ribs with the spice mixture, pressing it in gently to adhere.
  3. Add Ribs to Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker, curling them to fit if necessary. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the ribs to aid in tenderizing the meat during cooking.
  4. Pour on the BBQ Sauce: Generously pour barbecue sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated to absorb the delicious tangy and smoky flavors.
  5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook the ribs on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. Cooking on low heat is preferred for tender, juicy ribs that fall off the bone.
  6. Optional Finishing Under the Broiler: For a caramelized crust, transfer the ribs to a baking sheet, brush with extra barbecue sauce, and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Notes

  • Remove the silver membrane for better tenderness and seasoning absorption.
  • Use both a dry rub and wet barbecue sauce to create a balanced flavor profile.
  • Do not overcrowd the slow cooker—arrange ribs loosely for even cooking.
  • Cooking low and slow yields optimal tenderness and juiciness.
  • Allow ribs to rest a few minutes before serving to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker ribs, BBQ ribs, easy ribs, tender ribs, family dinner, barbecue ribs, gluten-free ribs

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/slow-cooker-bbq-ribs/