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Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs recipe

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Introduction

Enjoy the most tender, juicy, and flavorful ribs with this Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs recipe. Cooking ribs in a slow cooker ensures fall-off-the-bone perfection, while a sticky BBQ glaze adds that irresistible caramelized finish. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or craving comfort food, these ribs are a guaranteed hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender and Juicy

The slow cooker ensures the ribs are perfectly tender, while the BBQ glaze adds a flavorful finish.

Easy and Hands-Off

Minimal prep and the slow cooker does all the hard work for you.

Customizable Flavors

Adjust the spice level or BBQ sauce to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Ribs

  • 2 racks baby back ribs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Spice Rub

  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the BBQ Glaze

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

  1. Remove the membrane: Flip the ribs over and use a knife to loosen a corner of the thin membrane on the back. Grip it with a paper towel and pull it off completely. This step ensures the ribs are tender and flavorful.
  2. Make the spice rub: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Rub the ribs: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the ribs for even coating.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Ribs

  1. Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with olive oil.
  2. Add the ribs: Place the ribs into the slow cooker. Cut them into smaller sections if needed to fit.
  3. Add BBQ sauce: Pour ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook:
    • On LOW for 6–8 hours
    • On HIGH for 3–4 hours
      The ribs are ready when they are tender and nearly falling off the bone.

Step 3: Finish with a BBQ Glaze

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat your broiler to high.
  2. Prepare for glazing: Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker and transfer them to a foil-lined baking sheet.
  3. Brush with BBQ sauce: Generously coat the ribs with the remaining ½ cup BBQ sauce.
  4. Caramelize: Bake or broil for 5–7 minutes until the BBQ sauce is sticky and caramelized.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Slice the ribs into portions and transfer them to a serving platter.
  2. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
  3. Pair with classic BBQ sides for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

These Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs pair beautifully with:

  • Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy side that balances the richness of the ribs.
  • Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly, perfect for soaking up BBQ sauce.
  • Baked Beans: A smoky and savory accompaniment to your BBQ feast.

Pro Tips

Add a Smoky Flavor

For an authentic BBQ flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the slow cooker.

Extra Glaze

For ribs that are extra saucy, brush with BBQ sauce just before serving.

Check for Tenderness

The ribs are done when the meat is tender and begins to pull away from the bone.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ribs?

Yes, spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs work well. Adjust the cooking time as they may be larger and require more time.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can bake the ribs in the oven. Wrap them tightly in foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2.5–3 hours, then finish with the BBQ glaze under the broiler.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the ribs in the slow cooker a day ahead, store them in the fridge, and finish with the BBQ glaze just before serving.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Choose your favorite! Sweet, smoky, or spicy BBQ sauces all work great with this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

These Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with a rich, caramelized BBQ glaze. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or game day, this recipe brings the magic of BBQ into your kitchen with minimal effort.

Conclusion

Enjoy the smoky, sweet, and savory flavors of these Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs. With their tender texture and caramelized finish, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Serve them with classic BBQ sides for a meal that’s sure to impress and satisfy!

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