There’s something truly special about the way slow cooker ribs can bring a family together, be it during the sweltering heat of the summer or the cozy chill of winter.
My family, in particular, can’t seem to get enough of these tender, juicy ribs that slide off the bone with just a fork’s gentle pressure.
Perhaps it’s the convenience of setting up the slow cooker in the morning and coming home to an irresistible aroma that fills the house!
This recipe has become a staple in our home, celebrated for its simplicity and the mouthwatering satisfaction it brings to every meal.
Let me show you how to capture the essence of a leisurely barbecue without any of the hassle.
Key Takeaways
- Cook Time: Low – 8-10 hours
- Main Ingredients: Baby back pork ribs, onion, BBQ sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, and more
- Servings: 6
- Extras: There are so many amazing sides to have with these ribs- broccoli and yummy veggies, mac and cheese, cornbread, cole slaw, and so much more
- Tip: Cut off excess fat- you want some to get that juicy taste and texture, but too much will slow the cooking or make it way too liquidy
Best Slow Cooker Ribs: Amazing Dinner Year-Round
Cooking ribs doesn’t have to be hard—it is actually pretty easy! Only a few ingredients and 6-8 hours in the slow cooker will make your family VERY happy!
Step 1
Trim any excess fat off the ribs and cut to size. Make sure that the ribs fit in the slow cooker’s bottom.
Don’t trim off all the fat, though; you want to make sure you still have some left on there. That is what makes ribs so juicy!
If you want a super-tender rack of ribs, look for the thin membrane on the underside of the rack.
This thin layer isn’t inedible, but it does toughen up quite a bit during cooking.
If you find that your rack of ribs has this membrane, simply turn it over and remove the thin membrane before cooking.
That way, you will have very tender racks of ribs!
Step 2
Chop the ribs in half, and then slice the onion and lay it on the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with the ribs, then the spices, and finally the BBQ sauce and the water.
Some recipes just call for barbecue sauce, but adding paprika, pepper, and garlic powder really elevates them.
For extra tender ribs, marinate them overnight before cooking if you have the time- the flavor get soaked into the meat so well!
Step 3
Cook on low for 6-8 hours. You want them tender and to come off the bone easily when you bite them, but not so much that they will fall apart when you simply pick them up.
Once the ribs are done and you pull them out, the sauce leftover is so good that you will definitely want to pour some extra on the ribs!
Recipe Twist!
I like to pre-cook my ribs in the crock pot and then finish them off on the grill on nice summer days when I’m not too busy.
Not only does this give me more control over the cooking temperature, but it also gives me more tender ribs.
I tend to slow cook my ribs on low for 4 hours and then finish them on the grill.
When they are almost finished on the grill, I brush them with more barbecue sauce and grill them for a few minutes to give them the extra crunch I like.
Ingredients
- 2 - 2.5 lbs. baby back pork ribs
- 1/2 onion sliced
- 1 Tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 16 oz. bottle BBQ sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced or pressed; or 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbs brown sugar optional (sweeter version)
Instructions
- Slice onion and place on bottom of slow cooker.
- Cut ribs into halves or thirds and place over the onion.
- Add all spices and garlic on top of the ribs.
- Add the BBQ sauce and water.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours
- Remove from slow cooker and enjoy!
Recipe Substitutions
Looking to add some variety to your slow cooker rib recipe? Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and make this recipe your own.
The possibilities are endless, and you may just come up with your own signature slow cooker rib recipe!
The Meat
For pork ribs, you have many options, from spare ribs to baby back ribs- any are flavorful and perfect for this recipe.
You can also substitute a different type of meat, such as chicken or beef- BBQ goes well with most meats! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for smaller cuts.
Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as each type of meat may require a different amount of time in the crock pot.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, try substituting the ribs with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu. The barbecue sauce and spices will still add plenty of flavor!
To add an extra layer of flavor, try browning the ribs in a pan before placing them in the slow cooker. This will help lock in the juices and create a nice caramelized crust on the ribs.
The Sauce
To elevate your BBQ sauce and give those ribs an interesting twist, consider incorporating unexpected ingredients that add depth and complexity.
For example, combine BBQ sauce with a bit of coffee or dark chocolate to introduce a rich, robust flavor that pairs wonderfully with the smoky sweetness of traditional BBQ sauce.
If you’re aiming for a tangier profile, a splash of apple cider vinegar or a spoonful of mustard can brighten the sauce, adding layers of flavor.
Try adding some liquid smoke, extra brown sugar, and more garlic powder to your barbecue sauce before cooking to get that off-the-grill taste without any grill time.
You can also change the seasonings you add to the sauce- add onion powder, cayenne pepper, chili powder, red pepper flakes, and more to get savory or spicy ribs.
For those who enjoy a fruity undertone, blend in some peach or mango jams and some brown sugar- you may want to add a bit less garlic powder to let the sweet be the focus.
Don’t forget to save any leftover barbecue sauce from the slow cooker and use it as a delicious dip or topping for other meals.
The Sides
This Slow Cooker Ribs recipe goes well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad.
I personally love broccoli with any dish, so that’s what I did this time, but I’ve done it with baked potatoes, even sweet potatoes with brown sugar butter.
You can also try adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for an extra kick of flavor.
You can also serve pork ribs in barbecue sauce alone as a main dish for a casual summer barbecue or mini ribs as an appetizer for a party.
They will surely be crowd-pleasers no matter how you choose to serve them. So fire up that slow cooker and get ready to dig into some delicious ribs!
Other Slow Cooker Recipes
If you like this slow cooker ribs recipe, you might be interested in 40 other slow cooker dump recipes that are AMAZING!
FAQs
What kind of ribs do you buy for Crock-Pot ribs?
You can use any type of rib that you want, but for the crock-pot, I tend to use baby back ribs.
I like them better than country style, and they seem to fit into the slow cooker a little easier.
How long do ribs take to cook in a slow cooker?
I like to cook my ribs for 6-8 hours in the slow cooker. I find that if I try to rush them and cook them on high for 4 hours, they come out undercooked and tough.
You want to cook them low and slow to break down connective tissues, that way they fall right off the bone.
Can you overcook slow cooker ribs?
The whole point of ribs is to eat them off the bone, so cooking them low and slow is the way to go.
I find that you cannot overcook ribs in the slow cooker, but you can slow cook ribs without them falling off the bone.
You do this if you cook them at too high a temperature and too quickly.
If you cook ribs too quickly, they will become very tough and chewy. This may make you think that you’ve overcooked them, but you’ve actually just cooked them way too fast.
When cooking ribs in the slow cooker, you want to cook 6-8 hours on low. Let those juices get into the ribs and slowly moisten the meat until it falls right off the bone.
Should you sear ribs before cooking?
You should not sear your ribs before cooking.
You want to cook them low and slow to break down the connective tissue so they will fall off the bone when eating.
I find that a quick sear helps lock in juices and provide a good smoky flavor. I love a good rib that not only falls off the bone but also has a nice crispy outside layer!
What type of barbecue sauce works best for slow cooker ribs?
The choice of barbecue sauce largely depends on personal preference.
However, for slow cooker ribs, a thicker sauce tends to stick to the ribs better and caramelizes nicely when finished off on the grill.
You can go with classic sweet, smoky, or even spicy flavors. Experimenting with homemade BBQ sauce recipes can also add a unique touch to your dish.
Can I cook vegetables in the same slow cooker as my ribs?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the slow cooker alongside your ribs can make for a more rounded meal.
The vegetables will absorb some of the flavors from the BBQ sauce and juices from the ribs, making them incredibly tasty.
How do I store leftover slow cooker ribs?
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Make sure they cool down to room temperature before you put them away to prevent condensation from making them soggy.
When reheating, you might want to add a bit more BBQ sauce to restore some of the original flavor and moisture.
Can slow cooker ribs be frozen?
Yes, slow cooker ribs can be frozen for later enjoyment.
Once cooled, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as you normally would, adding BBQ sauce as needed.
Is it necessary to add liquid to the slow cooker when making ribs?
While not strictly necessary, adding a small amount of liquid (like water, broth, or apple juice) to the slow cooker can help maintain a moist environment for the ribs.
About a quarter to a half cup of liquid is usually sufficient without diluting the flavors of your BBQ sauce too much.
Final Thoughts
Harnessing the power and convenience of the slow cooker transforms the seemingly daunting task of making BBQ ribs into a simple, hassle-free cooking adventure.
With minimal prep, you’re rewarded with succulently tender ribs that not only tantalize the taste buds but also bring the essence of summer barbecues into your home any time of the year.
The beauty of slow cooking is its forgiving nature; it’s nearly impossible to overcook your ribs, ensuring that each bite is as effortless as it is delicious.
Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or a novice in the kitchen, the slow cooker method proves that great BBQ ribs are within everyone’s reach.
So go ahead, treat your family and friends to a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to be devoured with enthusiasm and leave them asking for more! Happy cooking!
Have you grabbed my Chaos to Control Starter Guide, yet? I might be biased but I think its pretty amazing! Check it out!
Grab my FREE Ultimate One-Touch Family Meal Planning System Below!
[…] Slow Cooker Ribs […]
Excellent!!! Can’t wait to make them again!
Delicious, smokey depth of flavors to the ribs. I keep a scrap bag of leftover veggies, i.e. red peppers, carrots, celery which I use to flavor soups or stocks but i threw them in the bed of the crockpot, more garlic (I’m Italian 🙂 and a teaspoon of molasses. They were moist and tender, the bed of veggies is so important. My husband ate almost every last one. I had to pry a second one for me from his hands, which is all I ended up getting. But he’s Superman and more than worth it. Thank you for a really… Read more »
I love ribs, but my dad lacks teeth in the front of his mouth, so I can’t usually male them. I made your recipe and cooked it on low for 7 1/2 hours. The meat fell off the bone! My dad and I had the best robs ever! Thank you!
Sounds so good! How long would it be on low? I want to make it tomorrow June 11.. thank you!
Thank you for your help! Super easy meal, had used recipe in past just forgot amounts. Great for Father’s Day and don’t need to turn oven on. CLD
Hello Lauren, I don’t use my slow cooker so as I am writing this I placed everything in my pressure cooker. I am hoping that the receipe and cooking time stays the same. I will definitely let you know but I am looking so forward to eating these ribs. Thanks for sharing!
You did not say how much water do you use help me out here.
The recipe said half a cup
There is no such slow cooker setting as Medium!!!
I’m gonna be really upset if, after 8 hours on low, the only good alternative, this turns out to be a waste of effort (and money). I can’t believe I didn’t realize before that there was no such setting.
These ribs came out dry and tasteless. Huge disappointment.
Howard check your slow cooker very carefully, mine has a medium setting on it and anyone else I know also have a medium setting on theirs.
It is possible that your brand does not have a medium setting but I have never seen one without the medium setting
I only have “warm, low, and high” settings on all 3 of my crockpots SBLbut I cooked this on low for 7 hours and it came out just fine.
My slow cooker only has warm, low, and high. I cook these on low for 8 hours and they are delicious. Be sure to peel the membrane off the back to make them more tender.
I have been loving all of your recipes so much… thank you!! I couldn’t find 2-2.5 lbs of babyback ribs at Aldi… I got 3.07 lbs which was the smallest one they had. Wonder if I should increase the amount of anything in it?
What size crockpot. How many people serve I have 4 quart poi
Trying it today. I used smoked paprika and onion powder.
Hi! How many people does this serve?
my opinion is that it will feed 2-3 people…maybe 4 small children?
i just put some in the crock, with this recipe and that’s for their lunch, and mine .
🙂 maybe mom can have some too… hee hee
yo, Lauren G. i’ve made my own red sauce from scratch before and your recipe for authentic Sicilian sauce is right on target, thanks for keeping it simple & traditional. i’m now all over your ribs cooked in a slow cooker recipe. again, is not new to me, but thanks for putting cooking recipes out on the net.
Does anyone know if you could use country ribs in this recipe instead and would it change the cooking times?
I would say so, sounds good to try it.
Thank you Lauren for this easy recipe !. It was a hit in my house.
These are currently in the crockpot as Im typing this… I bought a little over 3lbs of baby back ribs, so I added 1 more clove of garlic, added a cup of water and just about 16oz of bbq sauce by Guy Fieri Brown sugar and bourbon flavor. Cant wait until these are done! thanks for the easy recipe!
How did this turn out with a 3.5 pound of ribs
I feel like my slow cooker cooks everything super fast. I had mine go for 4 hours on low and they’re dry. Sometimes idk if it’s not done all the way since it took such little time or if they’re just over cooked. Three hours next time I guess.
I’m making them today for Sunday dinner can’t wait
I saw another version which is put into the oven afterward. Is this from-the-slow-cooker-to-the-donner-plate?
Just put them on, I’ll let you know how they turn out!
Do You need to put the lid on?
Thank you Lauren – just cooked these delicious!
The only change I made was to add an extra half a cup of water and to put them in the oven at the end at 190c for 15mins with some extra sauce…..4 hours in the slow cooker on high is perfect!
This will become a regular at our house.
I have a recipe where you bake in the oven with a spice rub of your choice, close to this one, then charcoal grill them 2 minutes on each side. Why not crock pot bake for 3 hours instead of four and then grill? We served them over polenta with the juices left and it was amazing!
Well Jennifer,
This is Lauren’s recipe and it was posted based on how she cooked it and the good results she received from it. If you’d like to create your way of doing ribs, then do that and not question the chef’s recipe, it’s disrespectful. How it was posted on her blog is how it’s suppose to be, not you recreate your version of the recipe and question why Lauren will not try it your way. Start your own recipe blog.
She wasn’t questioning it, it was more like a suggestion to herself that ended up working. Like “why not do this too?!” She probably thought to herself.
Hi Lauren,
We made these at thanksgiving and they were amazing. It easily fed three people as a main course using our 5 quart crock pot 6 hours on medium . We’re wondering how to scale this to feed 7 adults and two kids at Christmas. I’ll be able to borrow a 12 quart crockpot. Can I double all the ingredients and cook the same duration or is it twice as long?
Hi,
Can you please email your recipe for crock pot cooked BBQ baby back ribs?
Thank you,
Jody Smith
Great recioe & so tasty. I added some cayenne pepper cuz my hubby likes spicey sauce. Will be making them again.
Just added them to my insta pot on crock pot setting! Can’t wait to reveal and eat!!
what is the time it will take for 3 pounds 10 onzes baby back ribs.tyvm
First time making them so I put it on slow I guess that medium
First time making them , my crockpot says low or high so I put it on low for 6hrs I hope that is fine
My crockpots have only had low and high settings also. When you cooked them on low for 6 hours were they fall off the bone?
Excellent recipe, I make these ribs about twice a month and my family just raves over them!
DELICIOUS!
We sear the ribs quickly on the bbq earlier first
with a few soaked wood chips to create smoke…then put in crockpot to slow cook a few hours…Best of both worlds!!
and with the potatoe salad made the day before, and other salads or desserts brought by our guests, I can actually enjoy the party!!!
We were not pleased with this recipe. If this had been my first time eating ribs, I would never eat them again.
Just made these today for Sunday dinner: So, so good! This recipe is definitely a keeper! Thanks for sharing it!
Calories please
Although it looks like you don’t answer any questions
This is my go to recipe for ribs. I cook on low for 8 hours. Then broil the ribs with extra barbecue sauce for about 5 minutes. Ribs are fall off the bone good and so tender! Thank you so much for this wonderful recipe!
I saw the recipe for ribs and I L USI my crock pot and I love ribs so I wanted to give it a try
Do I went to the store with bought S and a just put them in
I will let you know H they turn out.
I love love love this recipe and so do my family and friends. I personally add a whole sweet onion and I make it to wear j pull the bones and to make pulled pork sandwiches. amazing!!!
OOH – sounds awesome!
I make ribs all the time in the crock pot, I put them in frozen thawed just enough to bend with onion soup mix, can or bottle of root beer on high for an hr and 30 mins then on low for at least 5 more hrs. Then I finish mine off in the oven on broil watching for the char on the bbq sauce that you want! This way I can make them all winter long too!
What I couldn’t seem to find is instructions for how long ‘finishing off’ on the barbecue equates to. I have always cooked them on low for around 5 hours using this recipe, but wanted to try taking them out of the crock-pot after 4 hours like she suggests and then putting them on my gas barbecue.
Suggestions anyone? 30 minutes? 15? Indirect or direct heat?