These Crockpot Barbecue Ribs are the perfect combination of tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Slow-cooked to perfection in a Crockpot, the ribs become melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with the tangy sweetness of barbecue sauce coating every bite. Whether you're preparing a family dinner or serving guests, these ribs are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how easy and hands-off this Crockpot Barbecue Ribs recipe is. The slow cooking process ensures that the ribs are tender and full of flavor without needing constant attention. The best part? You get that classic barbecue flavor without having to fire up the grill! The ribs soak in the sauce, making every bite bursting with flavor, and they come out perfectly cooked every time. It’s a foolproof recipe that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or weekend gathering.

Ingredients

2 racks of baby back ribs
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups of barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
1 tablespoon of paprika
1 tablespoon of garlic powder
1 tablespoon of onion powder
1 teaspoon of chili powder
1 teaspoon of ground mustard
1 teaspoon of brown sugar

(Hopefully, these ingredients will be exactly what you need for a flavorful meal! Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps make the ribs more tender.
Season the ribs generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ground mustard, and brown sugar. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the ribs.
Place the seasoned ribs into the Crockpot. If your Crockpot is small, you can cut the racks of ribs into smaller portions to fit.
Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, making sure they’re well-coated.
Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the ribs are tender and fully cooked. The meat should easily pull away from the bone.
Once the ribs are done, remove them from the Crockpot and brush with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes enough for about 4 servings, depending on how much rib each person wants. The cooking time is approximately 6 to 8 hours on low in the Crockpot, making it a great set-it-and-forget-it dish.

Variations

Spicy Ribs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix to give the ribs a spicy kick.
Smoky Flavor: For a smoky twist, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the rub.
Sweet Ribs: If you like sweeter ribs, you can add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the barbecue sauce for extra sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Once the ribs have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the Crockpot on low for 1-2 hours.

FAQs

How do I remove the membrane from the ribs?

To remove the membrane from the ribs, use a paper towel to grab hold of the thin layer of membrane on the back of the ribs. Gently pull it off. It may take a bit of effort, but this step is key to ensuring tender ribs.

Can I make these ribs ahead of time?

Yes! These ribs can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, then reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I cook these ribs on high instead of low in the Crockpot?

Yes, you can cook them on high for about 3-4 hours, but the ribs may not be as tender as when they cook slowly on low. For the best results, I recommend cooking them on low.

Can I add more sauce to the Crockpot while cooking?

Yes, you can add extra barbecue sauce during cooking if you want more flavor. Just make sure the ribs are well-coated, and feel free to add more sauce as they cook.

Conclusion

These Crockpot Barbecue Ribs are an effortless and delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs without the hassle. The slow cooking process locks in all the flavors and makes the meat so tender it falls right off the bone. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these ribs are sure to be a hit!