Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mind-blowing Awesome Slow Cooker Ribs! Imagine tender, fall-off-the-bone meat that's packed with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors - all achieved with minimal effort in your trusty slow cooker. Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing the ribs. Rinse the baby back ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture and ensures better seasoning.
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This is a thin, silver skin that can make the ribs tough. To do this, slide a knife under the membrane at one end of the rack, then use your fingers to peel it away. This step is crucial for tender ribs.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your dry rub for the ribs.
- Generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. This will enhance the flavor as the ribs cook.
- Place the seasoned ribs into the slow cooker. You may need to cut them into smaller sections to fit, depending on the size of your slow cooker.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, making sure they are well coated. You can reserve some sauce to add later for serving, if desired.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook the ribs for approximately 6 hours. This low and slow cooking method will make the ribs tender and flavorful.
- After 6 hours, check the ribs for doneness. They should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. If they need more time, you can continue cooking for an additional hour.
- Once the ribs are done, carefully remove them from the slow cooker using tongs. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the ribs with the reserved barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your awesome slow cooker ribs with your favorite sides!
Tips
- Choose the Right Ribs: Baby back ribs work best for this recipe, offering the most tender and flavorful results.
- Don't Skip the Membrane Removal: Taking the time to remove the silver membrane ensures your ribs will be tender and not tough.
- Generously Season: Be liberal with your dry rub - this is where the flavor magic happens! Make sure to coat every inch of the ribs.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. The 6-hour slow cook is crucial for achieving melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces or make your own to personalize the flavor.
- Let Them Rest: Always let the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These ribs can be prepared in advance and reheated, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 120mg
