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Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

Crockpot Barbecue Ribs offer a no-fuss, slow-cooked meal delivering fall-off-the-bone tender pork ribs coated in a perfectly balanced sweet and smoky BBQ glaze. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing dinner with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 2 to 3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)

Spice Rub

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

BBQ Glaze

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs to allow flavors to penetrate better and ensure the ribs become tender instead of tough.
  2. Season the Meat: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over both sides of the ribs to build a flavorful base.
  3. Add Ribs to the Crockpot: Place the ribs into the slow cooker, standing them on their ends if possible to maximize space and promote even cooking.
  4. Pour the BBQ Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are fully coated with the glaze.
  5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process breaks down the meat, making the ribs juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender.
  6. Optional Broiling: For a caramelized finish, transfer the ribs to a baking sheet, brush with additional sauce, and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the glaze bubbles and develops a slight char.

Notes

  • Remove the membrane for the most tender results and better seasoning absorption.
  • Choose a high-quality BBQ sauce to enhance flavor.
  • Do not lift the crockpot lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and moisture.
  • Adjust cooking time slightly if using thicker spare ribs instead of baby back ribs.
  • Save leftover sauce and heat separately for serving as a drizzle or dip.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot ribs, barbecue ribs, slow cooker ribs, BBQ ribs, easy ribs, tender ribs, family dinner