Easy Crock-Pot BBQ Ribs

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

For the BBQ Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)

Instructions:

Preparing the Ribs:

1. Remove Membrane: On the back of each rack of ribs, locate the thin membrane covering the rack. Using a knife or your fingers, carefully lift and loosen the membrane, then pull it off.
2. Season Ribs: In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create a dry rub. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the racks of ribs.
3. Cut and Arrange in Crock-Pot: Cut the racks of ribs into sections that will fit into your Crock-Pot. Stand them up along the sides of the Crock-Pot, with the meaty side facing outward.

Making the BBQ Sauce:

1. Prepare BBQ Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke (if using).

Slow Cooking:

1. Pour BBQ Sauce: Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure they are well coated. Reserve the remaining sauce for later.
2. Cook on Low or High: Cover the Crock-Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
3. Baste with Reserved Sauce: About 1 hour before the ribs are done, baste them with the reserved BBQ sauce.

Finishing Touches:

1. Broil (Optional): If you prefer a caramelized finish, transfer the ribs to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for a few minutes until the edges are slightly crispy.
2. Serve: Once done, carefully remove the ribs from the Crock-Pot, slice them into individual portions, and serve hot.

Enjoy:

Savor the tender and flavorful goodness of these Easy Crock-Pot BBQ Ribs. They’re perfect for a fuss-free and delicious meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.