Print

Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, coated in a smoky dry rub and finished with your favorite barbecue sauce—an easy and flavorful dish perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice
  • 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce

Instructions

  1. Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs if not already done.
  2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
  4. Cut ribs in half to fit into the slow cooker if needed. Place them in the slow cooker standing upright or layered.
  5. Pour apple cider or juice around the ribs (not over the top).
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until ribs are tender.
  7. Preheat broiler. Carefully remove ribs from the slow cooker and place on a baking sheet lined with foil.
  8. Brush ribs generously with barbecue sauce and broil for 3–5 minutes until sauce is caramelized and bubbly.
  9. Serve hot with extra sauce on the side if desired.

Notes

  • Use your favorite BBQ sauce—sweet, smoky, or spicy.
  • Broiling step is optional but adds great flavor and texture.
  • For extra tenderness, remove ribs from slow cooker carefully as they may fall apart easily.

Nutrition