Description
Crock Pot BBQ Ribs
Ingredients
3 lbs pork baby back ribs
1 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
Directions
Prepare the ribs: Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs for more tender meat.
Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Rub this mixture generously over the ribs.
Pour 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce into the bottom of your crock pot.
Place the ribs in the crock pot, cutting them into sections if needed to fit.
Brush another 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce over the ribs.
Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 4 hours, until the ribs are tender and nearly falling off the bone.
Optional Step: Preheat the broiler, place ribs on a baking sheet, brush with additional BBQ sauce, and broil for 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (Low) / 4 hours (High)
Total Time: 6-8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 520 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Crock Pot BBQ Ribs every time.
- Prep the Ribs: Pat ribs dry. Slide a butter knife under the thin membrane (silver skin) on the bone side, lift, and pull it off with a paper towel for grip.
- Make the Rub: In a bowl, thoroughly combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne.
- Season Generously: Rub the spice mixture onto all sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat.
- Layer in Crock Pot: Pour 1/2 cup BBQ sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place seasoned ribs inside, cutting racks to fit if necessary.
- Add More Sauce: Brush the top of the ribs with the remaining 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or on High for 4 hours. Ribs are done when meat is tender and pulls easily from the bone.
- Optional Broil: For a caramelized finish, carefully transfer ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with extra sauce, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
These tender ribs are a complete meal centerpiece. Serve them with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. For a lighter option, pair with grilled corn on the cob, a crisp garden salad, or roasted potato wedges. Don’t forget extra BBQ sauce and plenty of napkins!
How-to Summary
Remove silver skin, apply a homemade spice rub, slow cook in BBQ sauce for 6-8 hours on Low, and optionally broil for a caramelized finish. The result is fall-off-the-bone tender ribs with minimal hands-on effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use beef ribs instead of pork? Yes, beef short ribs work well. Adjust cooking time as they may require longer to become tender.
Do I need to add liquid to the slow cooker? The BBQ sauce and meat juices provide enough moisture. Adding extra liquid can make the ribs boil and become mushy.
Can I prepare the ribs the night before? Absolutely. Apply the rub, wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled ribs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F or in the microwave.
The sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? After removing the ribs, pour the juices into a saucepan, skim off excess fat, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until reduced to your desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Silver Skin Removal: This tough membrane prevents seasoning absorption and makes ribs chewy.
- Overcrowding the Pot: Stacking ribs can lead to uneven cooking. Cut racks to fit in a single layer.
- Lifting the Lid: Resist the urge to check! Each peek releases heat and steam, adding significant cooking time.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Avoid submerging the ribs. The slow cooker traps moisture, so less is more.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot BBQ Ribs recipe proves that incredible, restaurant-quality ribs don’t require a grill or constant attention. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, transforming simple ingredients into extraordinarily tender, flavorful meat. The optional broiling step adds a perfect finishing touch. It’s an effortless, foolproof method for a satisfying comfort food dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.