Ah, Crockpot Barbecue Ribs — fall-off-the-bone tender ribs with a rich, smoky-sweet flavor, all made effortlessly in a slow cooker! 🍖 Here’s a full guide:
🍖 Crockpot Barbecue Ribs
(Serves 4–6)
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
Instructions
- Prepare the ribs:
- Remove the silver skin (thin membrane) from the back of the ribs for more tender results.
- Season ribs on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place in crockpot:
- Arrange the ribs in the slow cooker. If needed, cut them in half to fit.
- Pour barbecue sauce over the ribs. For extra flavor, mix in apple cider vinegar.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
- Optional: Broil for a caramelized finish:
- Preheat oven broiler.
- Transfer ribs to a baking sheet and brush with extra barbecue sauce.
- Broil 3–5 minutes until sauce is bubbly and slightly charred. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve:
- Cut ribs into individual portions.
- Serve with extra barbecue sauce and sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Flavor boost: Rub ribs with a little brown sugar before cooking for sweetness.
- Spicy version: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce.
- Tenderness: Don’t skip removing the silver skin — it prevents seasonings from penetrating and makes ribs tough.
- Leftovers: Shred the ribs for sandwiches or tacos the next day.
I can also give a “3-ingredient dump-and-go crockpot ribs” version that’s ultra-simple but still tender and flavorful if you want a super easy weeknight option.
Do you want me to give that version?
