If you’re a barbecue enthusiast and a lover of tender, succulent ribs, then this Crockpot Barbecue Ribs recipe is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs are infused with a mouthwatering blend of spices and smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or simply craving a delightful dinner, this recipe will impress your taste buds and leave you yearning for more.
Who Will Love This Recipe?
This Crockpot Barbecue Ribs recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks who want to create a crowd-pleasing dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of using a crockpot is that it does most of the work for you, allowing you to enjoy your day while the flavors meld together to create a tantalizing meal. Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is beginner-friendly and guarantees delicious results.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a quick look at the kitchen equipment you’ll need to prepare these mouthwatering Crockpot Barbecue Ribs:
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Mixing bowls (small and medium-sized)
- Whisk
- Tongs or a spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Having these essential kitchen tools on hand will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
Tips and Variations
- For a smokier flavor, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce mixture.
- If you prefer your ribs to have a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix.
- To enhance the sweetness, substitute the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- For a tangier taste, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the ribs before serving.
Kitchen Notes
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious these ribs are), you can store them properly for future enjoyment. Allow the ribs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with aluminum foil. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to three days.
Food and Drink Pairings
Crockpot Barbecue Ribs pair well with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Here are some suggestions to complete your meal:
- Classic coleslaw: The creamy and crisp texture of coleslaw balances the rich flavors of the ribs.
- Cornbread: Enjoy a slice of warm cornbread to complement the smoky BBQ taste.
- Baked beans: The sweetness and savory notes of baked beans add a delightful touch to the meal.
- Iced tea or lemonade: A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade is the perfect thirst quencher to accompany your ribs.
Crockpot Barbecue Ribs
Enjoy tender and flavorful barbecue ribs with this easy crockpot recipe. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of your favorite Barbecue Sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- 4 to 5 pounds baby back ribs
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large zip lock bag, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Mix the Ingredients:
- Seal the bag and knead it with your hands to thoroughly mix the sauce ingredients together.
- Add the Ribs:
- Open the bag and carefully place the ribs inside. Seal the bag again and shake it well to ensure the ribs are completely coated in the barbecue sauce mixture.
- Crockpot Setup:
- Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, open the bag and transfer the ribs into the crockpot. Pour about ¾ of the remaining sauce from the bag over the ribs, making sure they are well covered.
- Cooking Time:
- For fall-off-the-bone tenderness, cook on high for 4 to 5 hours or on low for 9 hours. If you prefer the meat to be very soft but still clinging to the bones, opt for a cooking time of 7 hours on low.
- Serving:
- Reserve some sauce to serve on the side, allowing everyone to add more to their ribs if they wish.
