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Easy Slow Cooker Ribs

Fall-off-the-bone ribs made effortlessly in a slow cooker with barbecue sauce and spices.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 46 people
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 3 pounds baby back ribs or spare ribs cut into 2 to 3 rib sections
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce any variety you prefer
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (5 to 6 quart capacity)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Tongs or meat fork
  • Paper towels
  • Aluminum foil (optional, for broiling)
  • Baking sheet (optional, for finishing ribs)

Method
 

  1. Remove the ribs from the packaging and pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Cut the ribs into smaller sections (2 to 3 ribs per piece) to ensure even cooking.
  3. Flip the ribs over and locate the thin membrane on the bone side. Slide a butter knife under the membrane, wiggle it loose, and peel it away.
  4. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
  6. Pour half of the sauce mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the ribs on top in a single layer, overlapping if necessary, then pour the remaining sauce over them.
  7. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6 to 8 hours.
  8. Check the ribs after 6 hours by piercing the meat with a fork; it should shred easily.
  9. Optionally, remove the ribs to a baking sheet, brush with extra barbecue sauce, and broil for 3 to 5 minutes for a caramelized exterior.

Notes

Serve with sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete meal.