Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Ribs Recipe
Easy, Flavor-Packed Ribs for a Stress-Free Family Dinner
Nothing brings people together like a plate of tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone BBQ ribs. Whether you’re planning a laid-back family dinner, a game-day feast, or a weekend cookout, these Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Ribs will steal the show. Use this recipe without stealing your time.
Using a slow cooker takes the hassle out of making restaurant-quality ribs at home. No need to babysit a grill or oven for hours—just set it, forget it, and let the slow magic happen. The result? Ribs so tender they practically melt in your mouth, with a smoky, caramelized BBQ glaze that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
Ready to make your kitchen smell like a backyard BBQ joint? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs
- No Fuss, All Flavor – The slow cooker does the work while you enjoy your day.
- Perfectly Tender – Low and slow cooking makes these ribs fall-apart delicious.
- Versatile Cooking Options – Finish them under the broiler or on the grill for extra char and smokiness.
- Crowd-Pleasing Meal – Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party, these ribs always impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4-6)
- 2 racks (about 4 lbs) pork baby back ribs (or St. Louis-style ribs)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ribs
Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps them absorb more flavor and stay tender). Simply slide a knife under the membrane, grip it with a paper towel, and pull it off in one motion.
2. Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), and brown sugar. Rub this mixture all over both sides of the ribs, ensuring an even coating.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
- Place the ribs in the slow cooker, curling them around the inside if needed.
- Mix the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, then pour it over the ribs.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
4. Add That Perfect Finishing Touch
For a smoky, caramelized glaze:
- Oven Method: Preheat the broiler to HIGH. Transfer ribs to a baking sheet, brush with extra BBQ sauce, and broil for 3-5 minutes until caramelized.
- Grill Method: Heat the grill to medium-high. Brush ribs with BBQ sauce and grill for 3-5 minutes per side, until slightly charred.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side and your favorite sides (see below!).
How Long Does It Take to Cook Ribs in a Slow Cooker?
- Low setting: 7-8 hours (best for extra tenderness)
- High setting: 4-5 hours (still delicious but slightly firmer)
What to Serve with BBQ Ribs?
Pair these ribs with classic BBQ sides for the ultimate meal:
🥔 Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and rich, the perfect contrast to smoky ribs.
🌽 Grilled Corn on the Cob – Brushed with butter and a sprinkle of salt.
🥗 Tangy Coleslaw – A crisp, refreshing side to balance the richness.
🍞 Buttery Cornbread – Sweet, crumbly, and oh-so-good.
🥒 Pickles or Pickled Onions – A zesty, tangy contrast to the sweet BBQ glaze.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Sugar: 22g
Beginner’s Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Ribs
- Don’t Skip the Rub – The dry seasoning builds deep flavor before the BBQ sauce even touches the ribs.
- Use a Good BBQ Sauce – A smoky, slightly sweet sauce works best (homemade or store-bought).
- Finish Under the Broiler or Grill – This creates that irresistible caramelized crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker – If you’re making extra, stack the ribs in a crisscross pattern for even cooking.
Make Every Meal Effortless with More Slow Cooker Pork Recipes!
Love this recipe? Then you’ll love “35 Slow Cooker Pork Recipes” by Jean Pardue! This book is packed with easy, flavorful dishes that make cooking stress-free and delicious.
📖 Check out the Amazon book here.
Serve Your Freshly-Cooked Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs Today!
These Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Ribs are the ultimate easy comfort food. They’re perfect for a weekend feast, game-day gathering, or just a cozy family dinner. Give them a try, and let the slow cooker do all the work while you sit back and enjoy!
Did you try out this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below! By the way, what’s your favorite BBQ sauce to use?