Slow Cooker Ribs with BBQ Sauce is a game-changer for those who love tender, juicy ribs without the hassle. This recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone perfection, thanks to a rich brown sugar and spice rub combined with a sweet barbecue sauce and a hint of hickory liquid smoke. Imagine coming home to a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, signaling a hearty meal awaits. Let’s dive into this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ribs with

This slow-cooked ribs recipe is not just about convenience; it’s about flavor and tenderness. Here are reasons to love it:

Set it and forget it—ideal for busy weeknights.
Perfect for a crowd, yielding four generous servings.
Rich flavors from the brown sugar and spice rub.
Simple ingredients, yet utterly satisfying.
Achieve tender slow cooker ribs with minimal effort.
Great for meal prep; store leftovers or make ahead.

With this recipe, you’ll also learn how to make slow cooker ribs that are sure to impress!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ribs with

Gather these items:

1 rack back pork ribs
1 cup water
½ cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce
2 tsp hickory liquid smoke (do not add more than this!)
More Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce for serving
2 Tbsp brown sugar
¼ tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika

How to Make Slow Cooker Ribs with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Carefully lift an edge of the silver skin from the back of the ribs in the middle section and tear it off in one piece.
Step 2: Slice the rack of ribs into 4 equal sections to fit better into the slow cooker.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this spice mix onto all surfaces of the ribs.
Step 4: Place the rubbed ribs inside the slow cooker. Pour 1 cup of water and 2 teaspoons of hickory liquid smoke around the ribs.
Step 5: Pour ½ cup of Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce evenly over the ribs.
Step 6: Cover and cook ribs on low for 7 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 hours, until tender and cooked through.
Step 7: Warm additional barbecue sauce and brush it over the ribs before serving.

Slow Cooker Ribs with BBQ Sauce for Tender Perfection - Slow Cooker Ribs with - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Ribs with

Keep these in mind:

Removing the membrane ensures tenderness and better flavor absorption.
Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker model for optimal results.
For extra flavor, consider a dry rub the night before.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Ribs with

Here are some serving ideas:

Pair with coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Serve with cornbread for a classic Southern touch.
Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce for an extra kick.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Ribs with

To store leftovers, let the ribs cool, then place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of BBQ sauce to keep them moist. This method is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy tender ribs throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Ribs with

What is the best way to cook ribs in a crockpot?

The best way involves seasoning the ribs well and cooking them low and slow, ensuring they become tender and flavorful. Using a liquid like BBQ sauce or apple cider vinegar adds depth to the flavor. Learn more about slow cooking techniques.

Can I make Slow Cooker Ribs with ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ribs and the seasoning the night before, then simply place them in the slow cooker the next day. This makes for an easy meal that’s ready to serve when you are.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Ribs with?

Ensure you remove the silver skin from the ribs, as this can prevent them from achieving that tender texture. Also, be mindful of the cooking time; overcooking can dry them out. Check out more slow cooker recipes.

Variations of Slow Cooker Ribs with You Can Try

For a twist on this classic dish, consider:

Using a spicy dry rub for a kick.
Cooking with apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor.
Experimenting with different BBQ sauces, like honey mustard or spicy chipotle.

With these variations, you can cater to different tastes while enjoying the same tender, flavorful experience.