why make this recipe
Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce are a must-try for anyone who loves tender, flavorful meat without spending hours in the kitchen. Using a slow cooker makes this recipe easy and convenient, allowing you to set it and forget it while you go about your day. The sweet and smoky BBQ sauce perfectly complements the ribs, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
how to make Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 rack back pork ribs
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce
- 2 tsp hickory liquid smoke (do not add more)
- More Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce for serving
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
Directions:
- Carefully lift an edge in the middle of the ribs and peel off the silver skin in one piece to ensure tender results.
- Cut the rack of ribs into 4 equal sections for easier handling and even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this spice mix evenly all over the ribs using your hands.
- Place the rubbed ribs into the slow cooker. Pour the water and hickory liquid smoke around the ribs. You can also mix the liquid smoke into the rub if you prefer. Then, pour the ½ cup BBQ sauce over the top of the ribs.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4 hours until ribs are tender and cooked through.
- Optional: Brush ribs with warmed BBQ sauce before serving for extra flavor.
how to serve Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce
Serve the ribs with more BBQ sauce on the side. They go well with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. You can also serve them with a refreshing salad for a lighter meal option.
how to store Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can add a little extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist.
tips to make Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce
- Make sure to remove the silver skin from the ribs for the best texture.
- Adjust the amount of spice rub based on your taste preference.
- If you like a stronger smoky flavor, you can add a little more hickory liquid smoke, but be cautious as it can be overpowering.
- For a crispy finish, broil the ribs for a few minutes after cooking.
variation
You can experiment with different BBQ sauces or spices to suit your taste. Try adding some cayenne pepper for heat or switch the BBQ sauce for a honey-based one for a different sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of ribs?
Yes, you can use baby back ribs or spare ribs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop?
While the slow cooker is the best method for tenderness, you can simmer the ribs on low heat in a pot. Just ensure they are tender before serving.
Can I freeze leftover ribs?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container before freezing.
Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce
Tender, flavorful pork ribs slow-cooked in sweet and smoky BBQ sauce for an easy and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Total Time: 495 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 1 rack back pork ribs
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce
- 2 tsp hickory liquid smoke
- More Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce for serving
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
Instructions
- Carefully lift an edge in the middle of the ribs and peel off the silver skin in one piece.
- Cut the rack of ribs into 4 equal sections.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this spice mix all over the ribs.
- Place the rubbed ribs in the slow cooker. Pour in the water and hickory liquid smoke around the ribs. Pour the BBQ sauce over the ribs.
- Cover and cook on low for 420-480 minutes (7-8 hours), or on high for 240 minutes (4 hours) until tender.
- Optional: Brush ribs with warmed BBQ sauce before serving.
Notes
Make sure to remove the silver skin for best texture. Adjust the spice rub to your taste. For crispy ribs, broil after cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg





