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Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs Recipe

Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs Recipe


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4.6 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 4-5 hours 15 minutes (high)
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mouthwatering Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs bring classic bbq comfort straight to your kitchen with minimal effort. Fall-off-the-bone tender meat glazed in rich, smoky sauce promises a delicious meal you’ll savor with pure satisfaction.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 4 pounds pork baby back ribs

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauces and Liquids:

  • 2 cups barbecue sauce
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Blend smoked paprika, chili powder, and brown sugar to create a robust dry rub for the baby back ribs.
  2. Thoroughly massage the spice mixture into every surface of the ribs, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. Create a fragrant base layer in the slow cooker by spreading sliced onions and minced garlic across the bottom.
  4. Carefully position the seasoned ribs on top of the aromatic onion and garlic foundation.
  5. Craft a tangy sauce by whisking barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth and well-incorporated.
  6. Drench the ribs completely with the prepared sauce, allowing the liquid to cascade around and between the meat.
  7. Secure the slow cooker lid and set to low temperature for 6-8 hours or high temperature for 4-5 hours, monitoring until meat becomes fork-tender.
  8. For enhanced caramelization, transfer ribs to a broiler-safe pan, generously brush with additional barbecue sauce.
  9. Broil at 500°F for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a glossy, slightly charred exterior without burning.
  10. Plate the ribs immediately, accompanied by extra barbecue sauce for guests to customize their dining experience.

Notes

  • Choose baby back ribs with good marbling for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion during slow cooking.
  • Pat ribs dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and create a more robust crust.
  • Consider using a sugar-free barbecue sauce for low-carb or diabetic-friendly version without compromising taste.
  • Remove membrane from ribs’ back for more tender meat and better spice penetration, which helps improve overall texture and absorption of seasonings.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg