Crockpot Barbeque Ribs
Discover the secret to tender, flavorful Crockpot Barbeque Ribs with this easy slow-cooker recipe. Perfect for any BBQ lover, this method transforms simple pork ribs into a melt-in-your-mouth delight infused with rich spices and a sweet tangy sauce. Ideal for casual cooks and seasoned pros alike, these ribs become a go-to comfort meal for any occasion without requiring hours of grilling or fuss.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking and Optional Broiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 to 3 pounds pork ribs (baby back or St. Louis style)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (bottled or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water or broth
Optional Variations
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or hot sauce (for spicy kick)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for sweeter, tangier sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke or chipotle powder (for smoky flavor boost)
- Sugar-free sweetener to replace brown sugar (for low sugar option)
- Gluten-free barbecue sauce and spices (for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce with 1 teaspoon ginger and 1 teaspoon garlic (for Asian-inspired variation)
- Prepare the Ribs: Remove the thin silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the ribs become more tender and allows the sauce to penetrate better.
- Season the Meat: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over both sides of the ribs to form a flavorful crust.
- Add the Sauce and Liquid: Place the ribs in the crockpot, either standing upright or laying flat depending on size. Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, then add apple cider vinegar and water or broth to keep the meat moist.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook the ribs on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
- Optional Broil Finish: For a sticky, caramelized exterior, transfer the ribs carefully to a baking sheet. Brush with additional barbecue sauce and broil in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred.
Notes
- Removing the silver skin membrane ensures more tender, flavorful ribs.
- Cooking on low heat maximizes tenderness and flavor absorption.
- If available, use a crockpot rack to cook ribs evenly without them sitting in excess liquid.
- Reserve some barbecue sauce for glazing or serving as a dip.
- Do not overcrowd the crockpot; arrange ribs loosely for even cooking.
- If around, occasionally baste ribs with sauce during slow cooking to boost flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 5-6 ribs)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Crockpot ribs, barbecue ribs, slow cooker ribs, easy BBQ ribs, tender pork ribs, homemade BBQ sauce, slow cooked ribs