Easy Crockpot Ribs for a Weeknight Meal
Are you searching for a delicious and hassle-free weeknight meal? Look no further than these succulent crockpot ribs! They’re perfect for busy families who want to enjoy mouthwatering food without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep time and the help of your slow cooker, you can serve up a crowd-pleasing dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why Choose Crockpot Ribs?
Crockpot ribs are not only easy to prepare, but they also come out incredibly tender and flavorful. The slow cooking process allows the meat to absorb all the delicious spices and sauces, resulting in a dish that is sure to impress. Plus, using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it—perfect for those hectic weeknights!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 2-3 pounds baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by prepping the ribs. Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs for better flavor penetration and tenderness.
- In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the olive oil over the ribs, then generously coat them with the sauce mixture, making sure to cover both sides.
- Place the ribs in the crockpot, standing them upright if possible to maximize space. Pour any remaining sauce over the ribs.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ribs are tender and fully cooked through.
- Once done, carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot. You can either serve them straight away or brush them with additional barbecue sauce and broil them in the oven for a few minutes for a caramelized finish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Ribs
- Choose the Right Ribs: Baby back ribs are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use spare ribs if you prefer.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Allow the ribs to marinate in the sauce for at least an hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to mix and match different barbecue sauces or add your favorite spices to customize the flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: These ribs pair perfectly with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
These crockpot ribs are the ultimate weeknight meal solution. With their incredible flavor and tender texture, they will become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the ease of slow cooking and the satisfaction of serving a homemade dish that your whole family will love. Happy cooking!
