Description
Tender, saucy ribs cooked in a slow cooker for hands-off, deeply satisfying flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional; helps the rub stick)
- 2 tablespoons paprika (smoked paprika works well)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite bottle or homemade)
Instructions
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Remove the thin silver membrane from the bone side if it’s still attached.
- In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne (if using).
- Rub the olive oil over both sides of each rack. Press the spice mix evenly onto both sides of the ribs.
- Coil or cut racks to fit the slow cooker. Stand the ribs on edge or lay them in a single layer.
- Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, coating them well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until very tender.
- For a caramelized finish, transfer ribs to a sheet pan and broil for 2–4 minutes.
- Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
For deeper flavor, let the rub sit on the ribs for 15-30 minutes or refrigerate overnight. Use smoked paprika for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American