Slow Cooker Ribs? Heck yes! Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs made effortlessly while you go about your day. Here’s a simple, no-fuss recipe for mouthwatering slow cooker ribs.
🍖🔥 Slow Cooker Ribs
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time: ~6–8 hours
🧂 Ingredients:
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2–3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
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Salt & pepper
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1½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
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1 tbsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp chili powder (optional)
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep the Ribs:
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Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps tenderness).
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Season ribs generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and brown sugar.
2. Place in Slow Cooker:
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Coil the ribs in the slow cooker (cut into smaller sections if needed to fit).
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Pour barbecue sauce over ribs, coating well.
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Add apple cider vinegar if using for a tangy kick.
3. Cook:
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Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until ribs are tender and easily pull apart.
4. Optional Finish (Grill or Broil):
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For extra caramelized crust, transfer ribs to a baking sheet lined with foil.
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Brush with extra barbecue sauce.
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Broil or grill for 3–5 minutes until sauce is bubbly and slightly charred.
5. Serve:
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Let rest a few minutes, then slice between bones and serve with your favorite sides.
🔁 Variations:
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Use dry rub only for ribs and serve with sauce on the side.
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Add sliced onions or a splash of beer to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
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Swap pork ribs for beef ribs (adjust cooking time accordingly).
Want a smoky homemade BBQ sauce recipe or a quick oven-baked rib method? I’m here for it!
