Description
This Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tender pork ribs infused with a flavorful homemade dry rub and finished with a rich barbecue sauce. Cooked low and slow in the slow cooker, these ribs require minimal hands-on time and are perfect for a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Rub
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- 3 teaspoons seasoning salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Main
- 3-4 pounds pork ribs (membrane removed)
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper to create a flavorful dry rub mixture.
- Season the ribs: Cut the ribs into sections if needed to fit easier into the slow cooker. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs, coating them thoroughly.
- Arrange ribs in the slow cooker: Lightly grease a 4-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking. Line the ribs upright around the edges so the meaty part presses against the sides.
- Slow cook the ribs: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
- Apply barbecue sauce and finish: Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and brush them generously with barbecue sauce. For extra flavor and a sticky caramelized finish, grill for 5 to 6 minutes or broil for 2 to 3 minutes. This step is optional but recommended. Serve hot.
Notes
- Removing the membrane from the ribs helps the rub penetrate better and improves tenderness.
- Cut ribs into sections to fit your slow cooker size comfortably.
- Grilling or broiling after slow cooking adds a delicious caramelized crust to the ribs.
- Use a 4-quart slow cooker for best results; adjust cooking time if using a different size.
- Leftover ribs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American