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Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

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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

Scale

  • 34 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.