Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

Crockpot Barbecue Ribs are a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of barbecue right to your table with minimal effort. Perfectly tender and infused with smoky spices, these ribs are a hit for gatherings and family dinners.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs baby back ribs
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup water

Directions

1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Place the ribs in a slow cooker, arranging them in a standing position along the sides.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water until well combined.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the ribs are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
6. For a caramelized finish, preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Transfer the ribs to a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
7. Brush additional barbecue sauce on top of the ribs and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly charred.
8. Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot with extra sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low

Variations

• Spicy Ribs: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Different Sauces: Experiment with various barbecue sauces to find your favorite flavor profile.
• Slow Cooker Extras: Add sliced onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker for added flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
   Yes, spare ribs will work, but they may require slightly longer cooking time.
2. Do I need to sear the ribs before cooking?
   Searing is optional; the slow cooking method will still yield tender results.
3. Can I cook these ribs on high heat?
   Yes, you can cook them on high for 4-5 hours, but low heat is recommended for tenderness.
4. What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
   You can substitute it with white vinegar or lemon juice.
5. Can I freeze cooked ribs?
   Yes, you can freeze cooked ribs for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
6. How do I know when the ribs are done?
   The ribs are done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
7. Can I add more ingredients to the slow cooker?
   Yes, you can add other ingredients like beer or different spices for varied flavors.
8. What sides pair well with these ribs?
   Coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread make excellent side dishes.
9. How do I store leftover sauce?
   Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
10. Can I cook these ribs in the oven instead of a crockpot?
    Yes, you can bake them in the oven at a low temperature (around 275F/135C) for several hours until tender.

Conclusion

Crockpot Barbecue Ribs are a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. With minimal preparation and a slow cooker, you can create a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends. Serve with your favorite sides and extra barbecue sauce for a perfect gathering dish!

Print