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Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Ribs

Experience the ultimate in tender, juicy ribs without the need for a grill. These slow cooker BBQ pork ribs are richly seasoned with a bold spice blend, slow-simmered with aromatic ingredients, and glazed with your favorite barbecue sauce. Ideal for busy evenings or relaxed gatherings, this no-fuss recipe delivers flavor-packed ribs with minimal effort.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Ribs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 pounds of pork ribs baby back or spare, trimmed and membrane removed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup of your preferred barbecue sauce plus more for serving

Instructions

  • Remove the membrane from the underside of the pork ribs to ensure maximum tenderness. Pat the ribs dry thoroughly using paper towels.
  • Combine the smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Rub this spice blend evenly across both sides of the ribs.
  • Cut the ribs into smaller sections if necessary, then place them in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the top of the meat.
  • In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour the resulting mixture over the ribs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated.
  • Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 7 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the meat is extremely tender and begins to pull away from the bone.
  • For a caramelized finish, transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet, brush generously with extra barbecue sauce, and broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • Slice between the bones and serve hot, accompanied by additional barbecue sauce if desired.