Description
These Crockpot Barbecue Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, juicy, and coated in a smoky-sweet barbecue sauce. Slow-cooked to perfection, they’re effortless to make and taste like they’ve been smoked all day — perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3–4 lbs pork baby back ribs (or St. Louis-style ribs)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture generously all over the ribs, coating both sides.
- Place the ribs in the crockpot, curling them around the inside if necessary to fit.
- Pour apple cider vinegar and water into the bottom of the crockpot (not directly on the ribs).
- Brush 1/2 cup barbecue sauce over the ribs.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, until the ribs are very tender.
- Preheat the broiler (or grill) to high. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the ribs on it.
- Brush with additional barbecue sauce and broil for 3–5 minutes, until caramelized and sticky.
- Slice into individual ribs, serve warm with extra sauce on the side.
Notes
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked paprika or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce.
- Use beef ribs if preferred, adjusting the cook time by about 1 hour longer on LOW.
- These ribs can be made ahead and reheated in the oven at 300°F for 15 minutes.
- Serve with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 8 hrs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American