Of course! Making fall-off-the-bone barbecue ribs in the crockpot (slow cooker) is one of the easiest and most reliable methods. The low, slow heat tenderizes the meat perfectly with minimal effort.
Here are two fantastic methods: one for a “dry” rub style and one for a saucy, classic BBQ version.
The Ultimate Crockpot Barbecue Ribs
This method uses a simple “dry” rub for maximum flavor penetration, and you add the sauce at the end for perfect results.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on LOW (or 3-4 hours on HIGH)
Serves: 2-4
Ingredients
· 1 full rack (about 2.5-3 lbs) pork baby back ribs or spare ribs
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Dry Rub:
· 1 tablespoon brown sugar
· 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (key for a smoky flavor)
· 1 teaspoon garlic powder
· 1 teaspoon onion powder
· 1 teaspoon chili powder
· ½ teaspoon salt
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· ¼ teaspoon cumin (optional)
For Finishing:
· 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
· 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or honey (to thin the sauce slightly)
Instructions
- Prep the Ribs: Remove the thin, papery membrane from the back of the ribs. This is the #1 secret to tender ribs! To do this, slide a butter knife under the membrane on one end of the rack, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
- Apply the Rub: In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients. Drizzle the ribs with olive oil and rub it all over both sides. Generously sprinkle the dry rub mixture over both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat.
- Slow Cook:
· For a Rack: If your crockpot is large enough, you can stand the rack up along the sides, leaning against the wall, with the meaty side facing out. You can also coil it into a circle.
· For Sections: The easiest method is to cut the rack into 3-4 smaller sections that will fit flat in the bottom of the crockpot.
· Place the ribs in the crockpot. Do not add any liquid. The ribs will release their own juices as they cook.
· Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The ribs are done when the meat is tender and has pulled back from the bones. - Finish under the Broiler (Highly Recommended):
· About 30 minutes before the ribs are done, preheat your oven broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
· Carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot (they will be very tender and may fall apart). Place them on the prepared baking sheet, meaty-side up.
· In a small bowl, mix the barbecue sauce with the apple cider vinegar or honey. This thins it just enough for a perfect glaze.
· Brush a generous layer of the sauce all over the ribs.
· Broil for 3-5 minutes, watching closely, until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized. - Serve and Enjoy: Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before cutting into individual ribs. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Alternative Method: Saucy “Set It and Forget It” Ribs
This method is even simpler, with the sauce cooking right along with the ribs.
· Follow steps 1 and 2 for prepping and rubbing the ribs.
· Place the ribs in the crockpot. Pour about ½ cup of barbecue sauce mixed with ¼ cup of water or apple juice over the ribs.
· Cook as directed above.
· After cooking, carefully remove the ribs. Pour the liquid from the crockpot into a saucepan. Skim off the excess fat and simmer the liquid for 10-15 minutes until it thickens into a rich sauce. Use this to brush on the ribs before broiling, or serve it on the side.
Pro Tips for the Best Ribs
· The Membrane is Key: Removing the membrane on the bone-side is non-negotiable. It’s a tough layer that prevents seasoning penetration and makes the ribs chewy.
· Low and Slow is Best: Cooking on LOW will yield the most tender, fall-off-the-bone results. HIGH heat can sometimes make them a bit mushy.
· No Liquid Needed: The ribs release a surprising amount of fat and juices. Adding extra liquid can make them boil and become tough.
· The Broiler Finish is a Game-Changer: The slow cooker makes the meat incredibly tender but can’t create a caramelized, “barbecued” crust. A few minutes under the broiler fixes this perfectly.
· Spice to Your Liking: Feel free to adjust the rub! Add cayenne pepper for heat, or use a pre-made BBQ seasoning blend to save time.
Enjoy your incredibly easy, restaurant-quality ribs! They are perfect for a hassle-free weekend meal or for feeding a crowd.