Slow Cooker Ribs are the perfect way to achieve tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs without the need for hours of grilling or smoking. The slow cooker allows the ribs to cook low and slow, infusing them with flavor and keeping them incredibly juicy. Finish them off with a broil or grill for that classic caramelized barbecue glaze.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Instructions:
- Prepare the ribs: Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs (this step makes the ribs more tender). If needed, cut the ribs into sections to fit in your slow cooker.
- Mix the dry rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this spice mix generously all over the ribs, coating both sides.
- Place ribs in the slow cooker: Arrange the ribs in the slow cooker by stacking or standing them upright along the sides. You can roll them if needed.
- Cook the ribs: Cover the slow cooker and cook the ribs on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
- Finish with barbecue sauce: Once the ribs are cooked, carefully remove them from the slow cooker (they will be very tender). Preheat your oven’s broiler or a grill to medium-high. Brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce on both sides. Place them under the broiler or on the grill for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Serve: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing them between the bones. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side, along with your favorite sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
These Slow Cooker Ribs are perfect for a low-effort, big-flavor meal. The slow cooker does all the hard work, making this dish ideal for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues!
