Description
This Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs with minimal effort. The ribs are seasoned with a homemade dry rub, slow-cooked to perfection, and finished with a sticky barbecue sauce glaze, which can be optional grilled or broiled for added caramelization and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Rub
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- 3 teaspoons seasoning salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Main
- 3-4 pounds pork ribs (membrane removed)
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper to create a flavorful spice mixture that will enhance the ribs.
- Season the Ribs: Cut the ribs into sections if needed to fit your slow cooker easily. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs to ensure full flavor coverage.
- Arrange in Slow Cooker: Lightly grease a 4-quart slow cooker to prevent sticking. Place the ribs around the edges with the meaty side pressed against the cooker’s sides, maximizing cooking surface.
- Slow Cook the Ribs: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
- Add BBQ Sauce and Finish: Remove ribs from the slow cooker and brush generously with barbecue sauce. For an optional but delicious finish, grill the ribs for 5 to 6 minutes or broil in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce becomes sticky and slightly caramelized, then serve hot.
Notes
- Removing the membrane from ribs helps the seasoning penetrate better and results in more tender ribs.
- Cutting ribs into smaller sections makes them easier to fit in the slow cooker and serve.
- The grilling or broiling step is optional but adds a wonderful smoky flavor and texture to the ribs.
- Adjust the seasoning salt amount if you need to control sodium intake.
- Use your favorite barbecue sauce for customization of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 pound of ribs with sauce)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
