Super Easy Slow Cooker Ribs Recipe

I am refining my Crock Pot Pork Ribs Recipe featuring two racks of baby back ribs enriched with brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Apple cider vinegar infuses a lingering tang while balanced spices add depth. This unique twist on a timeless classic will spark your culinary curiosity.

I’ve always been into trying new ways to make ribs, and this super easy slow cooker version is a game changer. I use two racks of baby back ribs, and mix in just the right amount of brown sugar, paprika, salt, and all the seasonings like black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of cayenne pepper.

Then, a splash of apple cider vinegar, a little water and some BBQ sauce help create a tangy, rich base that really works with the meat. Slow cooking these ribs does wonders as it breaks down the connective tissue so the meat becomes fall-apart tender.

I’ve seen these kinds of recipes pop up under different names like crockpot ribs and slow cooker ribs recipes, and believe me, this one stands out. It may sound simple, but every bite packs flavor and leaves you wondering why you ever overcomplicated rib night before.

Enjoy!

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this recipe because it makes the ribs so tender that they just fall apart. I like how the slow cooking really breaks down the meat and makes it super juicy and flavorful even if the whole process takes a while. I also enjoy that the seasoning mix, with brown sugar, paprika, and the other spices, really seeps into the meat, giving it a rich, smoky taste. It works for any season too, which means I can enjoy it pretty much any time of the year. Lastly, that final step of brushing on BBQ sauce and popping the ribs under the broiler for a few minutes adds a touch of char that makes them extra delicious.

Ingredients

• Baby back ribs: high protein and natural fats, giving succulent, tender meat once slow cooked.
• Brown sugar: provides sweetness and promotes caramelization, balancing heat from spices.
• Apple cider vinegar: offers sour, tangy flavor that helps tenderize meat during cooking.
• Paprika: adds an earthy flavor with a little spice and enhances the dish’s vibrant color.
• Garlic powder: infuses a savory aroma that deepens the overall taste of the ribs.
• Cayenne pepper: gives a warming kick and a bit of heat to the sauce.
• BBQ sauce: brings a sweet, smoky finish that ties the flavors together.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4 lbs total)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (divided use, some for cooking and some for serving)

How to Make this

1. First, take the ribs and if needed, peel off the thin membrane from the back so your seasoning really gets in.

2. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

3. Rub the spice mix over the ribs, making sure you cover both sides well.

4. Place the ribs into your slow cooker, laying them in a way that they fit snugly.

5. In another bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, and half of the BBQ sauce, stirring them together.

6. Pour this liquid mixture over the ribs in the slow cooker.

7. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours, depending on your time available.

8. When the ribs are really tender, carefully take them out and brush them with the remaining BBQ sauce.

9. If you like a caramelized finish, pop the ribs under a preheated broiler on high for 3 to 5 minutes until they get a little charred.

10. Serve hot and enjoy these fall-apart tender, super easy slow cooker ribs!

Equipment Needed

1. Slow cooker
2. Large bowl for mixing the spice rub
3. Another bowl for the liquid mixture
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Knife and cutting board for prepping the ribs
6. Basting brush
7. Broiler-safe pan or tray for finishing the ribs under the broiler
8. Tongs or a spatula for moving the ribs around

FAQ

Super Easy Slow Cooker Ribs Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use coconut sugar or blend regular white sugar with a bit of molasses for something similar.
• If you’re out of paprika, smoked paprika can be a good swap, or even a pinch of chili powder if you don’t mind a little extra heat.
• If apple cider vinegar isn’t available, try white vinegar or red wine vinegar instead, though the taste might be slightly different.
• For BBQ sauce, you can make a quick homemade version with tomato paste, a little water, and your favorite spices if you’re short on the real deal.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you really get that thin membrane off the back of the ribs so the spices stick better. I’ve seen lots of people skip this step and then the flavor doesn’t go in as deep, so it’s worth the extra time.

2. When you’re rubbing on that spice mix, don’t be shy—get every nook and cranny, and if you can, let the ribs sit a little while so they really soak up the flavors before they hit the slow cooker.

3. If you decide to use the broiler for that charred finish, keep a close eye on it. It only takes a few minutes and you dont want it to burn. Every broiler is different so start checking early.

4. The liquid mix in the slow cooker adds tons of flavor and moisture, so try not to open the lid too often while it’s cooking. Each time you lift it the temperature drops and could affect how tender your ribs end up being.