Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

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🍖 Crockpot Barbecue Ribs (Fall-Off-The-Bone!)

These slow cooker ribs come out tender, juicy, and packed with smoky barbecue flavor—with almost no effort.

✅ Ingredients

For the Ribs

  • 2–3 lbs (1–1.5 kg) pork baby back ribs or spare ribs
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (plus extra for brushing)
  • ½ cup onion (sliced) — optional
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or water

Dry Rub (highly recommended)

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp chili powder or cayenne (optional for heat)

🔥 Instructions

1. Prepare the ribs

  • Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs (this makes them more tender).
  • Pat dry with paper towels.

2. Season

  • Mix all dry rub ingredients in a bowl.
  • Rub generously on both sides of the ribs.

3. Add to Crockpot

  • Place sliced onions at the bottom (optional).
  • Pour in ¼ cup vinegar or water for moisture.
  • Place ribs inside:
    • Cut the rack into 2–3 sections if needed.
  • Add ½ cup barbecue sauce on top.

4. Slow Cook

Choose one:

  • Low for 6–8 hours (best texture)
  • High for 3–4 hours

Ribs are done when they are soft, tender, and easily pull apart with a fork.

5. Optional: Broil for caramelization

For sticky, glossy ribs:

  • Preheat oven broiler.
  • Place ribs on a baking sheet.
  • Brush with more BBQ sauce.
  • Broil 3–5 minutes until bubbly and lightly charred.

🍽️ Serve With

  • Cornbread
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Coleslaw
  • Baked beans
  • Corn on the cob

⭐ Tips for Perfect Ribs

  • Baby back ribs → more tender
  • Spare ribs → meatier
  • Add 1–2 tsp liquid smoke for smoky flavor
  • Add pineapple juice for sweeter Hawaiian-style ribs
  • Can double recipe if the Crockpot is large

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