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Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

Crockpot Barbecue Ribs
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These Crockpot Barbecue Ribs offer an effortless way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs infused with smoky barbecue sauce. Perfectly slow-cooked to fall-off-the-bone tenderness, they require minimal active cooking time and are ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or weekend treats. This recipe uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Pork ribs (baby back ribs or spare ribs) – about 2 to 3 pounds
  • Barbecue sauce – 1 to 1 ½ cups, store-bought or homemade
  • Brown sugar – 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt – 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
  • Apple cider vinegar (optional) – 1 to 2 tablespoons

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ribs: Begin by removing the thin membrane on the back of the ribs to help keep the meat tender and let the flavors soak in better. Trim any excess fat for a lighter dish.
  2. Season the ribs: In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly on both sides of the ribs to establish a flavorful base.
  3. Place ribs in the crockpot: Arrange the ribs standing up inside the crockpot with the meaty side facing outward. This helps them cook evenly and absorb more sauce.
  4. Add barbecue sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs in the crockpot. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce before pouring.
  5. Slow cook to perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bones easily.
  6. Optional broil for finish: For a caramelized crust, transfer ribs to a baking sheet, brush with extra barbecue sauce, and broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

  • Removing the membrane ensures better sauce absorption and tenderness.
  • Cooking low and slow develops deep flavor and fall-off-the-bone texture.
  • Layer flavors by using a dry rub first and adding extra barbecue sauce at the end or after broiling.
  • Don’t overcrowd the crockpot; give ribs plenty of space for even cooking and better sauce absorption.
  • Save leftover cooking liquid as a dipping sauce or to baste ribs to keep them moist.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crockpot Ribs, Barbecue Ribs, Slow Cooker Ribs, Easy Barbecue Recipe, Tender Ribs

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/crockpot-barbecue-ribs/