Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a flavor-packed feast that'll have everyone begging for seconds! These slow cooker ribs are the ultimate comfort food that combines fall-off-the-bone tenderness with a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast or just looking to impress your family and friends, this foolproof recipe will turn you into a kitchen hero with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork ribs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a knife under the thin white membrane and pulling it off completely.
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a dry rub seasoning.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and generously coat all sides of the ribs with the dry rub seasoning, massaging it into the meat.
- Place the seasoned ribs into the slow cooker, standing them up against the sides of the pot, allowing them to lean slightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
- Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated and some sauce drips to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat, cooking for 7-8 hours until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker and place on a baking sheet.
- Optional: For a caramelized finish, brush additional BBQ sauce on the ribs and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly charred.
- Let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Tips
- Always remove the membrane from the back of the ribs - this ensures more tender meat and allows seasonings to penetrate deeply.
- Don't rush the cooking process. Slow cooking is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these ribs irresistible.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the ribs in the dry rub for 1-2 hours before cooking, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- If you want a smokier flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to your BBQ sauce mixture.
- The optional broiling step is crucial for creating those delicious caramelized edges - don't skip it if you want restaurant-quality ribs!
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for food safety.
- Let the ribs rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 441kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 100mg
