Slow Cooker Ribs
Slow cooker ribs don’t get much better than this. Rubbed with spices, slow-cooked until ultra-tender, and slathered in BBQ sauce, they’re packed with smoky, savory flavor. A few minutes under the broiler adds that perfect charred finish that makes them irresistible.
Ingredients
- 2 racks baby back pork ribs about 3 to 4 pounds total
- 4 teaspoons paprika for a rich smoky base
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder to enhance flavor
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder for a subtle sweetness
- 1 teaspoon chili powder for a touch of heat
- 1½ teaspoons salt to season the ribs well
- 1 teaspoon black pepper to round out the spice blend
- 1½ cups BBQ sauce divided - plus more for serving if you like extra sauce
Instructions
- If the ribs have a thin white membrane on the back, remove it by pulling it off with your fingers. If it doesn’t come off easily, slide a butter knife underneath to loosen it, then grip with a paper towel and peel it away.
- Cut each rack into two pieces, or smaller if needed, to ensure they fit inside your slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning blend generously over all sides of the ribs.
- Place the ribs in the slow cooker with the meaty side facing up.
- Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the ribs, saving the remaining ½ cup for after cooking.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
Notes
Preheat the broiler to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the ribs on top. Brush the ribs with the remaining ½ cup of BBQ sauce.
Broil the ribs for 3–6 minutes, watching closely, until the edges begin to char and the BBQ sauce caramelizes.
Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side, if desired.
Broil the ribs for 3–6 minutes, watching closely, until the edges begin to char and the BBQ sauce caramelizes.
Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side, if desired.