Slow Cooker Ribs are tasty and can be cooked to fall-off-the-bone tenderness or with a bit more chew, depending on your preference. This is an easy crockpot dinner with bold flavor from a savory spice rub and your favorite barbecue sauce. These slow cooker BBQ ribs are simple to prepare and quickly become a family favorite.
Crockpot BBQ ribs get their great flavor from a well-balanced spice rub and a quality barbecue sauce.
Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs
On busy days you can place a main course in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you get other things done. Crockpot BBQ pork ribs taste excellent when cooked low and slow, and they’re a crowd-pleaser for families.
What Size Crockpot Should Be Used For Ribs?
- I use a 6- or 8-quart slow cooker for ribs. I cut each rack in half so they fit easily. If your slow cooker is round, cut the rack into thirds or into pieces that fit; this will not change the cooking time.
- For smaller slow cookers, cut the rack into smaller pieces to fit comfortably inside.
How to make great slow cooker ribs:
A Good Ribs Spice Rub Is Essential
Ribs benefit from a robust spice rub. I often make a double batch of my rub and store it in a jar for quick use. A versatile rub adds the right balance of salt, spice, and subtle smokiness and works well on pork chops, pulled pork, burgers, and other meats.
The Best Liquid to Cook Crockpot BBQ Ribs In
- I like a mix of apple juice, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of liquid smoke.
- Apple juice adds a mild sweetness that complements pork. If you prefer, plain water or even cola or root beer can be used.
- Apple cider vinegar does not make the ribs taste sour; it contributes a subtle acidic note that brightens the flavors.
- Liquid smoke provides a gentle smoky hint that enhances overall taste.
After slow cooking, the ribs are tender and easy to slice into portions for serving.
The Final Step for Cooking Crockpot BBQ Ribs
- For the finishing touch, slather the ribs with a flavorful barbecue sauce. A sauce with smoky notes works well, but pick one you enjoy—some people prefer sweeter options.
- Broiling the ribs for a few minutes after saucing caramelizes the sauce and adds a lovely finish. This step is optional but highly recommended for added texture and flavor.
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Slow Cooker Ribs
Equipment
- 6-quart or 8-quart slow cooker*
Ingredients
- 1 rack Baby Back Ribs (cut to fit your cooker)
- 3–4 Tablespoons Spice Rub
- 1/2 cup Apple Juice
- 1/3 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
- 1–2 teaspoons Liquid Smoke
- 1/2–1 cup Barbecue Sauce
Instructions
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Cut the rack in half or thirds so it fits in your slow cooker.
- Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the rack if it’s still attached; a paper towel helps with grip.
- Rub the spice rub evenly over all sides of the ribs.
- Pour the apple juice, apple cider vinegar, and liquid smoke into the slow cooker.
- Add the ribs to the cooker and cover. Cook on High for 3–5 hours or on Low for 6–8 hours. Turning halfway through is optional.
- Remove the ribs and place them on a baking sheet. Slather with barbecue sauce to taste.
- Optional: Broil for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
*If your slow cooker is smaller than 6 quarts, cut the rack into smaller pieces to fit.
Cook Time
Rib cook time varies by the rack’s size, fat, and cartilage. Thicker racks with more connective tissue will need more time to become tender. Adjust cooking time based on how tender you prefer your ribs.
Nutrition
Calories: 366 kcal (approximate)
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
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