Slow-cooker barbecue ribs are a perfect combination of convenience and flavor. The slow cooking process ensures that the ribs become incredibly tender, while the barbecue sauce adds a rich, smoky, and tangy flavor that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a delicious meal, these ribs will surely be a hit. Plus, the slow cooker makes it easy to prepare this mouthwatering dish with minimal effort.
To begin, start by preparing your ribs. You can use baby back ribs or spare ribs, depending on your preference. First, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs to ensure they become tender during cooking. Season the ribs generously with a dry rub. A simple mix of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper will provide a great base flavor. Rub the seasoning all over the ribs, pressing it into the meat to ensure the flavors are absorbed.
Next, place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker. Depending on the size of your slow cooker, you may need to cut the ribs into sections to ensure they fit comfortably. Once the ribs are in the slow cooker, add a small amount of liquid to help keep the meat moist during cooking. You can use beef broth, apple cider vinegar, or even a splash of water. The liquid will create steam, helping to tenderize the ribs.
Cook the ribs on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. The slow cooker will work its magic, slowly infusing the ribs with flavor and making them incredibly juicy. Once the ribs are done, remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a baking sheet. Brush the ribs generously with your favorite barbecue sauce, then place them under the broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce and create a beautiful, slightly crispy exterior.
Serve the ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping and enjoy with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables. These slow-cooker barbecue ribs are perfect for a casual family dinner or a summer gathering, offering a delicious, fall-off-the-bone experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork ribs baby back or spare ribs
- 2 cups barbecue sauce your favorite brand
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
- Place the ribs in the slow cooker, meat side up.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
- Optional: For a caramelized exterior, place ribs on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes after slow cooking.
Nutrition
These ribs are the best thing I’ve ever made! So tender and delicious! 😍
Ribs in a slow cooker? Sounds weird but it worked. Pretty tasty!
Yummm! Gonna try this! Can’t wait to see how they turn out! 🥳
Hope you love it! The slow cooker makes everything so tender. Enjoy! 😊
Too much spice for me! I don’t think cayenne was a good idea. Next time, less heat!
I totally get what you mean! The cayenne can be really punchy. Maybe just omit it next time? Or use like, half? Just a thought!
Who knew ribs could come from a slow cooker? My mind is blown! 🤯
Meh, they turned out okay but pretty much like any other ribs. Nothing special.
I think slow-cooking ribs is a waste of time. Just grill them! But if you must use a slow cooker, this recipe seems OK.
Yummm! Best dinner ever! Can I double the sauce next time?
I used store-bought sauce and they were still good. No need for fancy stuff!
My family loved this recipe! I used homemade BBQ sauce instead and it was such a hit! 🎉
Barbecue sauce? Y’all use too much sauce. Better with just some salt.
I don’t know, man. Seems like too much hassle for just a sprinkle of salt. But whatever works for ya!
I totally disagree! The sauce is what makes it delicious. Ribs without sauce are just boring!
These ribs were a hit at my BBQ! So tender and flavorful. Will make again!
I just don’t like ribs. Wish there was a recipe for chicken instead!
I tried this recipe but it didn’t work for me. The ribs were tough and the sauce was too sweet. Maybe I did something wrong?
Simple and delish! Just my kind of meal! A little extra paprika gives it a nice kick!
Followed this recipe exactly, but my ribs were tough. Maybe I cooked them too long?
I was skeptical about the slow cooker, but these turned out amazing! Way better than I expected.
These ribs were absolutely phenomenal! Tender and flavorful. Will definitely make again! 😍
Totally agree! These ribs are the best! I’m glad you liked them. 😊
Ribs? Meh. I prefer chicken. But these are legit tasty if you’re into them.
Meh, who needs ribs anyway? Chicken is healthier and tastier. 🤷♂️
I get that! Chicken is great too. But these ribs are on another level, trust me!