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Easy Slow Cooker Ribs

Tender, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs cooked low and slow in a slow cooker with a flavorful dry rub and barbecue sauce, requiring just minutes of prep for maximum deliciousness.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American Barbecue
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 3 to 4 pounds baby back ribs about 2 racks
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce your favorite brand
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Water as needed about 1/2 cup

Equipment

  • 6-quart slow cooker
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Meat thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by slipping a knife under the thin white layer and peeling it away completely.
  2. Combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper in a small mixing bowl and stir until evenly blended.
  3. Pat ribs dry with paper towels and rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs, pressing gently to adhere; let rest for 5 minutes.
  4. Whisk together apple cider vinegar, barbecue sauce, and butter in a small bowl until the butter is incorporated into the sauce.
  5. Cut ribs into 2- to 3-bone sections and arrange them upright along the sides of the slow cooker.
  6. Pour the vinegar and barbecue sauce mixture over the ribs, adding about 1/2 cup water if the liquid does not reach halfway up the ribs.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender and a meat thermometer reads 195 to 203°F.
  8. Check for doneness by inserting a fork near the bone; the meat should pull away easily with minimal resistance.
  9. Optional: Transfer ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with extra barbecue sauce, and broil for 3 to 5 minutes to caramelize the edges, watching closely to prevent burning.

Notes

Serve with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or your favorite sides and reserve some cooking liquid to drizzle over the ribs.