Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

By Muhammad Faizan

Description

Crockpot Barbecue Ribs are an easy, hands-off meal that transforms simple ingredients into incredibly juicy, tender ribs. Slow cooking allows the meat to break down beautifully, and a quick broil or grill finish adds a caramelized, sticky layer of barbecue goodness. This recipe works with pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs) and uses pantry staples for a balanced sweet-savory sauce.

Ingredients

For the Sauce Mixture

  • 2 cups your favorite barbecue sauce

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

  • 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced

  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Ribs

  • 2–3 lbs pork baby back ribs or spare ribs

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Optional: 1 small onion, sliced (adds aroma)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs

  • Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended for tenderness).

  • Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix:

  • Barbecue sauce

  • Brown sugar

  • Minced garlic

  • Worcestershire sauce

Stir until smooth and combined.

3. Layer in the Crockpot

  • Add onions to the bottom if using.

  • Place ribs in the crockpot (cut into sections so they fit).

  • Pour the sauce mixture over the ribs, coating well.

4. Cook

  • Low for 7–8 hours (best tenderness)
    or

  • High for 3½–4 hours

The ribs should be extremely tender and nearly falling off the bone.

5. Optional Finishing Step (Highly Recommended)

For a sticky, caramelized glaze:

  • Transfer cooked ribs to a baking sheet.

  • Brush with extra BBQ sauce.

  • Broil 3–5 minutes or grill 2–3 minutes until the edges caramelize.

Servings

This recipe makes 4 servings (about ½ pound of cooked ribs per person).

Estimated Nutrition (per serving)

(Values vary by BBQ sauce brand and rib type)

  • Calories: ~520

  • Protein: 32g

  • Fat: 33g

  • Carbohydrates: 24g

  • Sugar: 18g

  • Sodium: ~980mg

Benefits of This Recipe

  • Hands-off cooking — perfect for busy schedules.

  • Customizable — choose your favorite BBQ sauce (spicy, smoky, sweet, tangy).

  • Tender & Juicy — slow cooking guarantees melt-in-your-mouth ribs.

  • Family-friendly — a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Notes & Tips

✔️ Choose the Right Ribs

  • Baby back ribs are more tender and shorter cooking time.

  • Spare ribs are meatier but take slightly longer.

✔️ Don’t Skip the Membrane Removal

Makes ribs more tender and easier to eat.

✔️ Add Liquid (Optional)

If you like a juicier result, add:

  • ¼ cup apple cider
    or

  • ¼ cup water

✔️ Sauce Matters

A thicker sauce gives a richer glaze; thinner sauces create more broth.

✔️ Want Heat?

Add:

  • ½–1 tsp chili flakes

  • A splash of hot sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen ribs?

Yes, but thawing first is recommended for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, add 1 extra hour.

Q: Can I prep this recipe the night before?

Absolutely. Mix the sauce and coat the ribs, then refrigerate overnight.

Q: Can I use beef ribs?

Yes—beef ribs work great but may need 8–9 hours on low.

Q: Do I need to sear the ribs first?

Not required, but searing adds extra flavor if you have time.

Q: Can I cook them without broiling?

Yes—they’re still delicious straight from the crockpot. Broiling just adds caramelization.

Q: Can leftovers be stored?

Yes!

  • Fridge: 3–4 days

  • Freezer: Up to 3 months
    Reheat gently so the meat stays tender.

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