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Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs


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  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: About 7 hours
  • Yield: Serves 4–6

Description

Ready to try the easiest, most flavorful ribs ever? These Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs are a no-fail, set-it-and-forget-it answer to fall-off-the-bone meat with sticky, caramelized BBQ goodness. A perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors make this recipe a standout for family dinners, casual entertaining, or summer potlucks. If you’re looking for a quick dinner prep, easy recipe, or just some new dinner ideas, this one’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your rotation. It also works great for weeknight food ideas and slow cooker comfort meals.


Ingredients

2 racks pork ribs (baby back or spare)

1 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for broiling)

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar


Instructions

1. Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs for tenderness.

2. Pat ribs dry and cut into 2-3 rib portions.

3. Season all sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar.

4. Let seasoned ribs rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.

5. Pour BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar in the bottom of the slow cooker.

6. Arrange ribs inside, layering as needed. Pour remaining sauce over the top.

7. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until tender.

8. Preheat broiler and line a baking sheet with foil and a wire rack.

9. Transfer ribs to the baking sheet. Brush with additional BBQ sauce.

10. Broil for 3–5 minutes until sauce bubbles and begins to char.

11. Let ribs rest 5 minutes, slice, and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

Removing the membrane ensures the seasoning penetrates and the ribs stay tender.

Finish under the broiler for that signature sticky-charred BBQ texture.

Use a wire rack when broiling to allow even caramelization and prevent soggy bottoms.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6–7 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker, Broiler
  • Cuisine: American BBQ

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 1/4 rack)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 860mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg