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Crockpot Ribs

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Crockpot Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender pork ribs slow-cooked with a flavorful rub and finished with sticky, caramelized barbecue sauce. They’re an easy, no-fuss way to enjoy restaurant-quality ribs at home.

Ingredients

  • 3–4 lbs pork baby back ribs or spare ribs
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
  • 2 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp liquid smoke (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs.
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
  3. Rub seasoning mixture over both sides of ribs.
  4. Cut ribs into halves or thirds to fit into the crockpot.
  5. Arrange ribs in the crockpot, standing or stacking as needed.
  6. Add apple cider vinegar or liquid smoke to the bottom if desired.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until tender but not falling apart.
  8. Carefully transfer ribs to a baking sheet.
  9. Brush generously with barbecue sauce.
  10. Broil for 5–7 minutes until sauce caramelizes and becomes sticky.
  11. Let rest a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Remove the membrane for the most tender ribs.
  • Finish under the broiler for caramelized, sticky ribs.
  • Baby back ribs are more tender, while spare ribs are meatier and require a bit longer cooking.
  • Adjust the rub with cayenne or hot sauce for spicier ribs.
  • Ribs release their own juices, so liquid is optional in the crockpot.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/crockpot-ribs/