Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

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🍖 Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

Slow-cooked until tender, then finished with sticky, caramelized BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

  • 2–3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar or water
  • Optional: 1 small onion, sliced (for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ribs

  • Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but makes them more tender).
  • Cut the ribs into 3–4 rib sections so they fit in the Crockpot.

2. Season the Ribs

In a small bowl, mix:

  • Brown sugar
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Smoked paprika (if using)

Rub this mixture all over the ribs.

3. Add to the Crockpot

  • Place sliced onions on the bottom (optional).
  • Lay the ribs on top.
  • Pour apple cider vinegar or water around the edges.
  • Spoon about ½ cup of the BBQ sauce over the ribs (save the rest for later).

4. Slow Cook

Choose your cooking method:

  • Low: 6–8 hours (best, fall-off-the-bone)
  • High: 3–4 hours

Ribs should be very tender.

5. Add BBQ Sauce & Finish

Once ribs are tender:

  1. Preheat broiler (or heat grill).
  2. Transfer ribs to a baking sheet lined with foil.
  3. Brush generously with the remaining BBQ sauce.
  4. Broil or grill for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce caramelizes.

(Optional but highly recommended!)

6. Serve

Serve with:

  • Extra BBQ sauce
  • Cornbread
  • Coleslaw
  • Mashed potatoes

⭐ Tips for PERFECT Crockpot Ribs

  • Use baby back ribs for the tenderness.
  • Finish under the broiler/grill for restaurant-style caramelization.
  • Add a splash of liquid smoke for smoky flavor without a smoker.
  • Don’t overfill the Crockpot — ribs need a little space.

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