Slow Cooker Ribs

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 7 hours
🍽 Serves: 4
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Slow Cooker Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for when you want a meal that feels like a hug. This recipe takes the hassle out of cooking ribs without sacrificing flavor. Let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting, and you'll get tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ribs

Pork baby back ribs are the star of the show, offering a tender and juicy bite. The brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness and helps create a beautiful caramelization. Paprika gives a smoky depth, while garlic powder and onion powder provide a savory base. A touch of cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat, and of course, a good pinch of salt and black pepper enhances all the flavors. The barbecue sauce, combined with apple cider vinegar for a bit of tang and Worcestershire sauce for umami, forms a sticky, flavorful coating that you'll love.

Tips & Tricks

  • Removing the membrane is crucial for tender ribs; don't skip this step.
  • For a more intense flavor, let the ribs marinate in the spice rub overnight in the fridge.
  • If your slow cooker is smaller, you can cut the ribs into sections to fit better.

Serving Suggestions

These ribs pair wonderfully with creamy coleslaw and buttery cornbread for a classic BBQ meal. A side of baked beans or roasted vegetables can also complement the rich flavors. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a crisp green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as spare ribs are generally larger.
What if I don't have apple cider vinegar?
You can substitute white vinegar or even lemon juice in a pinch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Slow Cooker Ribs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preparing your ribs. Flip them over to the bone side and slide a butter knife under the thin white membrane. Once you have a grip, pull it away — this allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better. Next, mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Rub this spice blend all over the ribs, ensuring an even coating.

Place the ribs into your slow cooker with the meat side facing outwards. In a separate bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the ribs, making sure they're well coated. Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Let the ribs cook for 6 to 7 hours, or until they're tender and practically falling off the bone.

If you want that extra caramelized finish, preheat your broiler. Carefully transfer the ribs to a baking sheet lined with foil and broil for 3 to 4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning — you just want a nice, bubbly glaze.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Set it and forget it — let the slow cooker handle the work.
  • Rich, smoky flavor from a homemade spice rub.
  • No need to fire up the grill — perfect for any season.
  • Simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.

Ingredients

3 lbs pork baby back ribs
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups barbecue sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the back.
2. Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the ribs.
4. Place ribs in a slow cooker, meat side out.
5. In a separate bowl, combine barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Pour the sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until ribs are tender.
8. Optionally, finish ribs under a broiler for 3-4 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

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