Slow-Cooker BBQ Ribs (Tender & Juicy)
Ingredients
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2–3 lb pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
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Salt & black pepper
Dry Rub
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp chili powder (optional)
BBQ Sauce Mix
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1½–2 cups BBQ sauce
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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Optional: 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for extra glaze
Instructions
1. Prep the ribs
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Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs if present.
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Cut ribs to fit your slow cooker.
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Season generously with salt, pepper, and dry rub.
2. Sauce them up
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Mix BBQ sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire, and honey (if using).
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Place ribs in the slow cooker.
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Pour sauce over ribs, coating well.
3. Slow cook to perfection
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Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours
or HIGH for 4–5 hours -
Ribs should be very tender and nearly falling off the bone.
4. Optional caramelized finish (recommended 🔥)
For that sticky, glossy look:
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Transfer ribs to a baking sheet.
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Brush with extra BBQ sauce.
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Broil 3–5 minutes until caramelized.
Serve With
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Mashed potatoes
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Corn on the cob 🌽
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Coleslaw
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Baked beans
Pro Tips
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Baby back ribs = leaner, faster
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Spare ribs = richer, ultra-tender
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Sauce too thin? Simmer it on the stove 5–10 minutes to thicken
If you want a sweet-and-spicy, honey-garlic, or holiday-style BBQ rib twist, just say the word 😌