Description
Crockpot Barbecue Ribs are tender, fall-off-the-bone delicious, and full of smoky barbecue flavor. Slow-cooked in the crockpot, these ribs are finished with a sticky, caramelized glaze, making them perfect for easy weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3–4 lbs (1.4-1.8kg) pork baby back ribs or spare ribs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups (480ml) barbecue sauce, divided
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ribs:
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. If needed, remove the thin membrane on the back of the ribs by loosening it with a knife and pulling it off.
- Season the ribs generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub the spices into the meat.
-
Add to the Crockpot:
- Place the ribs into the crockpot, standing them on their edge so they curve around the inside of the pot.
- Pour the apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of the barbecue sauce over the ribs, covering them evenly.
-
Slow Cook the Ribs:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bones.
-
Finish with Extra BBQ Sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or set your broiler on high.
- Carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Brush the ribs with the remaining 1 cup of barbecue sauce, and sprinkle with brown sugar if desired.
-
Broil or Bake the Ribs:
- Broil the ribs for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
-
Serve:
- Slice between the bones and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Notes
- Add smoke flavor: Use a few drops of liquid smoke in the crockpot for a smoky, grilled flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a spicy barbecue sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.