Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

Description

Tender, fall-off-the-bone barbecue ribs made right in your crockpot! This recipe combines slow cooking with rich, smoky flavors and a sticky, caramelized barbecue glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or game day, these ribs are effortless yet incredibly flavorful. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, your crockpot does all the work while your home fills with mouthwatering aromas.

Ingredients For Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

  • 3–4 lbs pork baby back ribs (or spare ribs)

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)

  • ½ cup brown sugar

  • 2 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp ground black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ribs: Remove the thin membrane on the back of the ribs (this helps them become more tender).

  2. Make Dry Rub: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.

  3. Season Ribs: Rub seasoning mixture generously over the ribs on both sides.

  4. Arrange in Crockpot: Place ribs in the crockpot, standing them upright if necessary. Drizzle apple cider vinegar over ribs.

  5. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until ribs are tender.

  6. Finish with Sauce: Drain excess liquid. Brush ribs with barbecue sauce. For sticky, caramelized ribs, transfer them to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes until sauce bubbles and slightly chars.

  7. Serve: Slice into portions, brush with extra sauce, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Baby back ribs are best for tenderness, but spare ribs work too.

  • For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the crockpot.

  • If you prefer sweeter ribs, add a little honey or maple syrup to the sauce.

  • To make cleanup easier, use a slow cooker liner.

Tips

  • Always remove the rib membrane for best texture.

  • Cooking on LOW gives the most tender results.

  • Save some of the cooking juices to mix into your barbecue sauce for extra flavor.

  • If cooking for a crowd, double the recipe but don’t overcrowd the crockpot—cook in batches if needed.

Servings

  • Serves 4–6 people

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. 1/2 lb ribs + sauce)

  • Calories: 520

  • Protein: 38g

  • Fat: 30g

  • Carbohydrates: 22g

  • Sugar: 18g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 820mg

Benefits

  • Effortless Cooking: Crockpot makes ribs tender without constant monitoring.

  • Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

  • Customizable: Adjust sweetness, smokiness, and spice to taste.

  • Great for Gatherings: Perfect make-ahead dish for parties or potlucks.

Q&A

Q: Can I use beef ribs instead of pork?
A: Yes! Beef ribs work, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Q: Do I have to broil them after slow cooking?
A: No, but broiling caramelizes the sauce and adds that “grilled” look and taste.

Q: Can I prepare these the night before?
A: Yes! Season the ribs with dry rub, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just add them to the crockpot the next day.

Q: What barbecue sauce works best?
A: Any! Go for smoky, tangy, or sweet depending on your taste. Homemade sauces also work beautifully.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes. Store cooled ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave with extra sauce.

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