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Crockpot Barbeque Ribs

Crockpot Barbeque Ribs

This Crockpot Barbeque Ribs recipe delivers tender, juicy ribs with smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs effortlessly fall off the bone and are ideal for busy days, family dinners, or casual gatherings. Minimal prep and versatile seasoning options make this recipe a crowd-pleaser with an easy, delicious finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Ribs

  • Baby back ribs or spare ribs (enough for your crockpot size, typically 2-3 pounds)

Dry Rub

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Liquids & Sauce

  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (thick, tangy)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water or broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the thin silver membrane from the back of the ribs to ensure tenderness. Rinse the ribs well and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the Ribs: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this dry spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs to fully infuse the flavors.
  3. Arrange Ribs in the Crockpot: Cut the rack into smaller sections to fit your slow cooker. Stand the ribs along the sides of the crockpot with the meaty side facing outward, leaving space in the center for liquids.
  4. Add Liquids and Sauce: Pour apple cider vinegar and water or broth into the base of the crockpot. Generously coat the ribs with barbecue sauce on all sides to keep them moist and richly flavored.
  5. Slow Cook the Ribs: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The ribs should become tender enough to easily fall off the bone while still maintaining their shape.
  6. Optional Finishing Touch: For a caramelized crust, transfer ribs to a baking sheet, brush with additional barbecue sauce, and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred.

Notes

  • Removing the membrane is crucial for tender ribs and better flavor absorption.
  • Apply dry rub first, then coat ribs with barbecue sauce to layer flavors.
  • Cooking on low heat for a longer time gives the best results for juiciness and tenderness.
  • Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier.
  • Adjust the amount of liquid to prevent drying but avoid steaming ribs excessively.
  • Let the ribs rest a few minutes after cooking to keep juices locked in.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crockpot ribs, barbecue ribs, slow cooker ribs, fall-off-the-bone ribs, smoky ribs, easy ribs recipe, gluten free ribs