Sink your teeth into these irresistibly tender Crock Pot Barbecue Pork Ribs, a foolproof recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Featuring succulent baby back ribs coated in a smoky-sweet dry rub of paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar, this slow-cooked dish is infused with bold barbecue flavor thanks to a tangy homemade sauce enhanced with apple cider vinegar, honey, and optional liquid smoke. The secret to perfection lies in the crock pot’s low, steady heat, which makes the ribs fall-off-the-bone tender, followed by a quick broil for a caramelized, sticky glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners, summer gatherings, or game day feasts, these ribs pair seamlessly with creamy coleslaw or buttery cornbread. Discover how easy it is to recreate restaurant-quality barbecue from the comfort of your kitchen!
Begin by removing the membrane on the back of the ribs, if not already done. Slide a knife under the edge of the membrane, lift it, and use a paper towel to peel it off completely.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar to create a dry rub.
Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
Cut the ribs into sections of 3-4 ribs each (to fit into the crock pot more easily).
Place the rib sections in the crock pot, stacking them if necessary but ensuring they are evenly distributed.
In a medium bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and liquid smoke (if using).
Pour about 1 cup of the sauce mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of sauce for later use.
Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
Once the ribs are cooked, preheat the broiler in your oven.
Carefully remove the ribs from the crock pot and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet.
Brush the reserved barbecue sauce generously over the ribs.
Broil the ribs for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce caramelizes and forms a slight crust. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before cutting and serving.
Serve the ribs warm with your favorite sides like coleslaw or cornbread.
Calories |
4845 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 329.3 g | 422% | |
| Saturated Fat | 120.0 g | 600% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1279 mg | 426% | |
| Sodium | 7697 mg | 335% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 208.5 g | 76% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.7 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 170.6 g | ||
| Protein | 289.8 g | 580% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 481 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 19.2 mg | 107% | |
| Potassium | 4807 mg | 102% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.