These BBQ ribs are super easy to make in your crock pot! Just slather them with Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce and let them cook until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. Yum!
I can’t resist the saucy goodness! The smell alone brings everyone to the kitchen. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. Who needs a grill when you have a crock pot, right? 😄
I love how simple this recipe is. Just toss in the ribs, pour the sauce, and let it work its magic! Serve them with some coleslaw, and you’ve got a feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are tender and meaty, perfect for this recipe. Spare ribs are a great option too if you’re looking for something a bit meatier and more affordable. You can also use beef ribs in a pinch, but keep in mind the cooking time might vary.
Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce: This sauce is known for its sweet and tangy flavor. If you want to switch things up, try a homemade BBQ sauce or a different brand with more spice or smoke. You can also make a low-sugar version to accommodate dietary preferences.
Spices: The garlic and onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper are essential for flavor. If you want a little heat, throw in some cayenne pepper or chili powder. You could also use fresh garlic and onions; just adjust the quantities to your taste.
Olive Oil: This ingredient is optional for browning. If you prefer, you could use another oil like vegetable or canola oil. For a richer flavor, try using butter instead.
How Do I Properly Prepare Ribs for Cooking?
Properly preparing your ribs is key to achieving tender and tasty results. Here’s how to do it:
- **Remove the Membrane:** Always peel off the thin membrane on the back of the ribs. Use a knife to gently lift it and then pull it off with a paper towel for a better grip. This helps the seasonings penetrate the meat.
- **Season Generously:** Coat the ribs evenly with your spice mix. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the flavor significantly.
- **Optional Browning:** If you choose to brown the ribs, heat a skillet on medium-high and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until they form a nice golden crust. This adds depth and flavor.
Following these steps will help ensure your ribs turn out juicy and flavorful!
BBQ Ribs in Crock Pot with Sweet Baby Ray’s
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Ribs:
- 2 to 3 pounds of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
For The Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 bottle (18 oz) Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)
- Extra BBQ sauce for brushing (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep—removing the membrane, seasoning, and optionally browning the ribs. After that, you’ll need to let them cook in the crock pot for either 6 to 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high. Total time is around 6-8 hours depending on your cooking setting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ribs:
Start by checking the back of the ribs for a thin membrane. If you find it, use a knife to gently slide underneath the membrane, then pull it off. This helps make your ribs more tender and lets the flavors soak in better.
2. Seasoning the Ribs:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Take this seasoning mix and rub it all over the ribs. Make sure every part of the ribs is covered for the best flavor.
3. Optional Browning:
If you want to add more depth to the flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Sear the ribs for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned. This is an optional step, so you can skip it if you prefer.
4. Placing in the Crock Pot:
Next, you may need to cut the ribs into sections to fit in your crock pot. Arrange the ribs inside, and then pour half of the Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce over them. Make sure they’re nicely coated with the sauce for maximum flavor.
5. Cooking the Ribs:
Cover your crock pot, and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll want to cook them until they’re super tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Finishing Touches:
If you’d like to give the ribs a nice caramelized finish, brush some of the extra BBQ sauce on top. Then, place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn! Once done, serve them with additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your mouth-watering crock pot BBQ ribs!
Can I Use Other Types of BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! While Sweet Baby Ray’s is a favorite for its sweetness and flavor, you can use any BBQ sauce you like. Just keep in mind that sauces with different flavor profiles may change the overall taste of the ribs. Experiment to find your perfect combination!
What If I Don’t Have a Crock Pot?
No worries! You can cook these ribs in the oven. Wrap the seasoned ribs in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender, then brush with BBQ sauce and broil for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Can I Freeze Leftover Ribs?
Yes, you can freeze leftover BBQ ribs! Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How to Achieve Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs?
To ensure your ribs are super tender, cook them on low for the full 8 hours. If possible, try not to peek during cooking as the steam helps tenderize the meat. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit of apple juice in the crock pot for extra moisture and flavor!
