Print

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Tender, juicy Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs drenched in rich, smoky barbecue sauce. This easy, hands-off recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone ribs with minimal effort, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, customizable to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 23 lbs pork ribs (baby back or St. Louis style)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup water or broth

Optional Variations

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce (for spicy kick)
  • 2 tbsp pineapple juice or honey (for sweet and tangy flavor)
  • Few drops liquid smoke or ¼ tsp smoked salt (for smoky BBQ flavor)
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (for herb infusion)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs to ensure better seasoning penetration and tenderness. Pat ribs dry with paper towels.
  2. Apply the Dry Rub: In a bowl, mix brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
  3. Add Liquid Base: Pour water or broth and apple cider vinegar into the slow cooker to keep ribs moist and create a steamy cooking environment.
  4. Place the Ribs in the Slow Cooker: Arrange the ribs either upright or laid flat inside the slow cooker, allowing some overlap if needed.
  5. Slow Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
  6. Finish with BBQ Sauce: Remove ribs from the slow cooker and generously coat both sides with BBQ sauce. For a sticky finish, place under a broiler for 3-5 minutes or grill briefly for charred flavor.

Notes

  • Remove silver skin membrane for tender ribs.
  • Cook on low heat for best results; avoid rushing.
  • Use your favorite quality BBQ sauce or make homemade.
  • Do not overcrowd ribs to allow even cooking.
  • Let ribs rest before slicing for juicier meat.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker BBQ ribs, easy ribs recipe, tender ribs, fall off the bone ribs, BBQ dinner