Crockpot Barbecue Ribs Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as tender, juicy ribs that fall off the bone and are coated in sticky, flavorful barbecue sauce. With this crockpot recipe, you can achieve mouthwatering barbecue ribs with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the hard work, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals. Get ready for a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Ribs:

• 3–4 lbs (1.5–2 kg) pork baby back ribs or spare ribs
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for a hint of spice)
• 1 cup (250 ml) barbecue sauce, plus extra for brushing

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Sliced green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Trim the ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this ensures they’re tender). Use a knife to loosen the edge, then pull it off using a paper towel for grip.
2. Cut the ribs: Slice the rack into 3–4 rib sections to fit comfortably in your crockpot.

Step 2: Season the Ribs

1. Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and chili powder in a small bowl.
2. Rub the spice mix generously onto both sides of the ribs. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Add to the Crockpot

1. Place the seasoned ribs in your crockpot, stacking them upright or layering them flat, depending on the size of your slow cooker.
2. Pour ½ cup of barbecue sauce over the ribs, ensuring they’re lightly coated. (Reserve the remaining sauce for later.)

Step 4: Cook the Ribs

1. Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The ribs are done when they’re tender and easily pull away from the bone.

Step 5: Broil for a Perfect Finish

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) or set the broiler to high.
2. Carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot (they’ll be very tender, so handle with care).
3. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Brush the ribs generously with the remaining barbecue sauce.

Step 6: Broil and Serve

1. Broil the ribs for 5–7 minutes, or until the barbecue sauce becomes sticky and slightly caramelized.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair the ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or a fresh green salad.
• Add some grilled corn or roasted vegetables for a hearty, balanced meal.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the cooked ribs (without sauce) in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat with fresh barbecue sauce.

Helpful Notes

• Rib Type: Baby back ribs are smaller and leaner, while spare ribs are meatier and slightly fattier. Both work well for this recipe.
• Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or a homemade version. For a smoky flavor, try a hickory or mesquite barbecue sauce.
• Slow Cooker Liner: For easy cleanup, consider using a slow cooker liner.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If your barbecue sauce is very sweet, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

1. Aaron Franklin (of Franklin Barbecue) emphasizes the importance of a dry rub to layer in flavor before adding sauce.
2. Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman) suggests adding a splash of liquid smoke to the crockpot for an extra smoky taste.
3. Bobby Flay advises finishing ribs on a grill instead of the broiler for that authentic barbecue char.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use beef ribs instead of pork?

Yes! Beef ribs work well, though they may take slightly longer to cook depending on their size.

2. Do I need to add liquid to the crockpot?

No additional liquid is necessary as the ribs will release their juices while cooking.

3. How can I make the ribs spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dry rub or barbecue sauce for an extra kick.

4. What if I don’t have a broiler?

Use a grill or skip the broiling step. The ribs will still be delicious!

5. Can I cook the ribs on high the entire time?

Yes, but for the most tender results, low and slow is preferred.

6. Should I marinate the ribs overnight?

While not necessary, marinating with the dry rub overnight can intensify the flavor.

7. What size crockpot is best for this recipe?

A 6-quart crockpot is ideal for 3–4 lbs of ribs. Adjust the recipe for smaller or larger crockpots.

8. Can I skip the broiling step?

Yes, but broiling adds a caramelized texture that enhances the flavor.

9. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave with additional sauce to keep them moist.

10. What barbecue sauce flavor works best?

Classic, smoky, or tangy barbecue sauces complement the ribs best, but feel free to experiment with honey mustard or spicy versions.