Description
These Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs are tender, flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone delicious. Slow-cooked with a blend of spices and barbecue sauce, then finished under the broiler for a caramelized sticky glaze, making them perfect for a comforting meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Ribs and Seasoning
- 2 racks pork baby back ribs (about 4 pounds total)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Barbecue Sauce
- 2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
- Make the dry rub: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Season the ribs: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs, pressing it firmly into the meat to maximize flavor penetration.
- Arrange in slow cooker: Cut the racks if necessary to fit, and arrange them inside the slow cooker.
- Add barbecue sauce: Pour 1 1/2 cups of barbecue sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated for rich flavor throughout slow cooking.
- Slow cook the ribs: Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours until the ribs are tender and easily pull away from the bone.
- Prepare for broiling: Carefully transfer the ribs to a baking sheet, then brush them with the remaining 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce to coat the surface.
- Broil the ribs: Broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and becomes slightly sticky, enhancing the ribs with a delicious glaze.
Notes
- Removing the membrane from the ribs helps the seasoning and sauce penetrate better and makes the ribs more tender.
- If your slow cooker is small, cut the ribs into sections to fit comfortably inside.
- Use your favorite barbecue sauce or try a smoky or spicy variety to customize flavor.
- Watch the ribs closely during broiling to prevent burning the sauce.
- Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete meal.
