There’s nothing quite like a tender, falling-off-the-bone rack of ribs to satisfy your cravings. And when you can achieve that same level of tenderness and flavor with minimal effort in the slow cooker, it’s a game-changer. In this article, we’re sharing 18 mouth-watering crock pot BBQ rib recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic pork ribs with a tangy twist to innovative flavors like smoky chipotle peach, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a comforting meal to enjoy at home, these slow cooker recipes will guide you through the process of creating fall-apart tender ribs that are bursting with flavor. So grab your crock pot and get ready to dive into the world of BBQ ribs!
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic BBQ Ribs
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with this sweet and savory recipe that yields fall-off-the-bone tender ribs. This slow cooker method ensures a hands-off, stress-free cooking experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended).
4. Place the ribs in the slow cooker, bone-side down.
5. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over both racks of ribs.
6. Sprinkle BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight on low heat.
8. Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and let them rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Crock Pot Bourbon Brown Sugar Ribs
Slow-cooked to tender perfection, these bourbon-infused ribs are slathered in a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze. Perfect for a crowd or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the ribs in the crock pot and pour the glaze over them.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove the ribs from the crock pot and brush with any remaining glaze.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to impress your family and friends with these tender, juicy, and flavorful baby back ribs! This recipe is perfect for a casual gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat (275°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this will help them fall off the bone). Pat dry with paper towels.
4. Apply the dry rub evenly to both racks of ribs.
5. Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Close the lid and smoke for 2 hours.
6. After 2 hours, brush the ribs with BBQ sauce and flip them over. Close the lid again and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Spicy Maple Glazed Pork Ribs
Elevate your rib game with this sweet and spicy glaze that combines the richness of maple syrup with the heat of chipotle peppers. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cumin, and chipotle peppers.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized and the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tangy Pineapple BBQ Ribs
Sweet and tangy, these ribs are a perfect summer treat. This recipe combines the classic BBQ flavor with the tropical twist of pineapple, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from ribs; place them in a large baking dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
5. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and caramelized.
6. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2.5 hours
Smoky Chipotle Peach Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with this sweet and smoky twist on traditional ribs! This recipe combines the tender, fall-off-the-bone texture of pork ribs with a tangy, slightly spicy glaze featuring chipotle peppers and juicy peaches.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup peach preserves
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and place them on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the ribs are caramelized and tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15-20 minutes
Easy Root Beer Braised Ribs
Get ready to devour these tender and flavorful ribs, braised to perfection in a sweet and tangy root beer-based sauce. This easy recipe requires minimal effort but yields maximum results.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup root beer
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine root beer, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the ribs, cover the pot, and transfer it to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Sticky Asian-Inspired BBQ Ribs
Sticky Asian-Inspired BBQ Ribs Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with the sweet and savory fusion of East meets West in this sticky Asian-inspired BBQ ribs recipe. With a blend of traditional Korean chili flakes, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and soy sauce, these tender ribs are sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili flakes, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and rice vinegar.
3. Remove membrane from ribs and place in a large baking dish. Brush both sides with the sticky mixture.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
5. Remove foil and brush with sesame oil. Return to oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Coffee-Rubbed Ribs
Elevate your barbecue game with this unique twist on classic pork ribs. A perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground coffee
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, coffee, chili flakes, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season ribs with the coffee-rub mixture, making sure to coat all surfaces evenly.
4. Place ribs on the grill or in the oven; cook for 2 hours.
5. Brush with apple cider vinegar during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Apple Cider Vinegar BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the unique flavor combination of sweet apple cider vinegar and tangy BBQ sauce, perfectly balanced to bring out the best in tender and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
4. Place the ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the apple cider vinegar mixture.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Memphis-Style Dry Rub Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with these tender and flavorful ribs! This slow cooker recipe is a twist on traditional BBQ, using a dry rub instead of sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove membrane from ribs and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Apply the dry rub evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place ribs in the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
6. If desired, brush with Greek yogurt during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Molasses and Mustard Glazed Ribs
Elevate your rib game with this sweet and tangy glaze, featuring the deep flavors of molasses and mustard.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs (optional but recommended for easier glaze penetration).
4. Place ribs on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, bone-side down.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the ribs.
6. Bake for 2 hours or until meat is tender and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Garlic Butter Herb BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with these tender and flavorful Garlic Butter Herb BBQ Ribs! This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter, the freshness of herbs, and the sweetness of BBQ sauce for a truly mouth-watering experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
3. Remove membrane from ribs and place them on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both racks of ribs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 2 hours or until tender.
7. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 10 minutes of cooking.
8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes
Cherry Cola BBQ Ribs
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of cherry cola and BBQ sauce on tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1 cup cherry cola
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-low heat (275°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cherry cola, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs; cut into individual portions if desired.
4. Brush both sides of ribs with the cherry cola mixture, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place ribs on grill and close lid. Cook for 2 hours or until tender.
6. During last 10 minutes, increase heat to medium-high. Flip ribs and brush with additional BBQ sauce (optional).
7. Remove from grill; let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes
Smoked Paprika and Brown Sugar Ribs
A sweet and smoky twist on classic ribs, this recipe combines the deep flavors of smoked paprika with the richness of brown sugar for a truly mouth-watering experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and brush with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the dry rub evenly over both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. After 2 hours, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the unique flavor of these Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Ribs! The sweet and spicy combination of Dr Pepper and barbecue sauce will make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef ribs
– 1 can Dr Pepper (12 oz)
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dr Pepper, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour the Dr Pepper mixture over them.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
5. Serve with additional barbecue sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Carolina-Style Vinegar-Based BBQ Ribs
A classic Southern twist on traditional BBQ ribs, these tender and tangy Carolina-style ribs are perfect for a summer cookout or family gathering. With a vinegar-based sauce and a slow-cooked approach, these ribs will transport you to the heart of the Carolinas.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and place in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove ribs from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 2 1/2 hours, or until tender and falling off the bone.
5. Brush with additional vinegar-based sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Balsamic Fig Glazed Pork Ribs
Elevate your pork ribs game with this sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup fig jam
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine fig jam, balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Remove from heat and stir in olive oil. Let it cool slightly.
4. Season pork ribs with salt and pepper. Place them on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with these tender crock pot BBQ rib recipes! With 18 mouthwatering options, you’ll never run out of ideas for a deliciously smoky and flavorful meal. From classic slow cooker honey garlic ribs to spicy maple glazed pork ribs, tangy pineapple BBQ ribs to sticky Asian-inspired BBQ ribs, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and spicy or smoky and savory, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So why wait? Grab your crock pot and start cooking up some tender and tasty ribs today!
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