Finger-Lickin’ Good Crockpot Barbecue Ribs
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good time with this Crockpot Barbecue Ribs recipe. These fall-off-the-bone tender ribs are slow-cooked to perfection and slathered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food that practically melts in your mouth. Let’s dive into this savory delight!
Ingredients:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Barbecue Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
- Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the seasonings penetrate the meat better and make for a more tender result. You can use a knife to loosen a corner of the membrane and then grab it with a paper towel to pull it off.
2. Season the Ribs:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This is your rib rub.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
3. Cut and Arrange:
- Cut the racks of ribs in half so they fit into your slow cooker.
- Stand the ribs up along the sides of the slow cooker, with the meaty side facing outward and the bone side against the walls of the slow cooker.
4. Prepare the Barbecue Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This is your homemade barbecue sauce.
5. Slow Cook:
- Pour half of the barbecue sauce over the ribs, coating them evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. The low and slow cooking process will make the ribs incredibly tender.
6. Finish with Sauce:
- When the ribs are done cooking, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Brush the remaining barbecue sauce generously over the ribs.
7. Broil for a Crispy Finish:
- Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Place the ribs under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, just until the sauce caramelizes and the ribs get a slightly crispy edge. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
8. Slice and Serve:
- Slice the ribs between the bones and serve them hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Tips:
- For extra smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to your barbecue sauce.
- Don’t skip broiling the ribs at the end; it gives them that irresistible caramelized finish.
- If you have a grill, you can also finish the ribs on it instead of broiling for a delicious smoky char.
- These ribs are perfect for gatherings and BBQ parties. Make a double batch, and watch them disappear!
Enjoy these Crockpot Barbecue Ribs with friends and family. Their tender, flavorful goodness will make you a true rib aficionado, and your taste buds will thank you for this mouthwatering experience!