If you’re craving tender, juicy beef ribs with a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce but don’t want to spend all day grilling or smoking, this Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs recipe is perfect for you! The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth ribs with minimal effort. This dish is ideal for a relaxed dinner or a summer cookout, without all the hassle.
What makes this recipe so special is the combination of simple ingredients and the slow cooking process that makes the meat incredibly tender. The barbeque sauce adds a rich and flavorful layer, making these Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs the perfect comfort food for any occasion!
These Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs are prepared by slow cooking beef ribs with a flavorful dry rub, then smothering them in your favorite barbecue sauce and cooking them until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. Ready in about 6-8 hours, they’re perfect for dinner, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving ribs with minimal effort!
With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this scrumptious recipe in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Exciting Story:
The first time I made Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs, it was for a family dinner during the colder months when grilling wasn’t an option. I wanted to create a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen, and the slow cooker was my secret weapon. As the ribs cooked, the house was filled with the irresistible scent of savory barbeque, and I couldn’t wait to see how they turned out.
Once the ribs were ready, the meat was so tender it practically fell off the bone with a gentle nudge. The first bite was absolutely delicious—the smoky flavor of the barbecue sauce and the tender meat melted in my mouth. These Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs quickly became a family favorite, and now they’re my go-to dish for special occasions and cozy dinners.
Why These Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs?
- Tender and Juicy: The slow cooker makes the meat incredibly tender and juicy, so the ribs practically fall off the bone.
- Minimal Effort: With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, these ribs are super easy to prepare.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or weekend treat, these ribs are a hit with everyone!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs
- Prepare the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Prep the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (if not already removed) by using a knife to gently lift it and pulling it off with your fingers. Rub the ribs on both sides with the olive oil, then generously coat the ribs with the dry rub mixture, pressing it into the meat.
- Slow Cook the Ribs: Place the ribs in the slow cooker, standing them up if necessary to fit. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat pulls away easily from the bone.
- Apply the Barbecue Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low. This allows the sauce to set and become sticky.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the ribs are tender and fully coated with barbecue sauce, remove them from the slow cooker and slice them into individual servings. Serve immediately with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Tips For Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs
- Be Generous with the Rub: Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount of the dry rub on the ribs. It adds a lot of flavor to the meat.
- Slow Cooking Tip: For fall-off-the-bone tenderness, be sure to cook the ribs low and slow. The longer the cook time, the more tender the ribs will be.
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Cuts: You can use any cut of beef ribs, such as short ribs, if you prefer.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dry rub for a spicy kick.
- Different Sauces: Feel free to use your favorite homemade or store-bought barbecue sauce. A sweet sauce pairs beautifully with the savory ribs, but a tangy sauce can also add a nice contrast.
Make a Healthier Version
- Choose a sugar-free or low-sugar barbecue sauce to reduce the sweetness and calories of the dish.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables instead of fries or mashed potatoes for a lighter option.
Closing For Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs
And there you have it! These Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs are a delicious, no-fuss meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With the slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy tender, flavorful ribs with minimal effort. Don’t forget to let us know how your ribs turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more easy and delicious options!
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ribs and dry rub ahead of time, refrigerate them overnight, and then slow cook them the next day.
Can I use pork ribs instead of beef ribs?
Yes! This recipe works perfectly with pork ribs as well, especially baby back ribs.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Can I cook them on high in the slow cooker?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook the ribs on high for about 3-4 hours instead of 6-8 hours on low.
Can I use a different barbecue sauce?
Absolutely! You can use any type of barbecue sauce you prefer—sweet, tangy, spicy, or smoky.
How do I serve the ribs?
Serve them with extra barbecue sauce, coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with these ribs?
These ribs go great with sides like mac and cheese, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
How can I make them spicier?
Add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dry rub or barbecue sauce for extra heat.
Can I finish the ribs under the broiler for crispy edges?
Yes! After cooking in the slow cooker, you can place the ribs under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the edges and caramelize the sauce.
Can I use a pressure cooker instead?
Yes, you can use an Instant Pot to cook the ribs in about
Easy Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs
Course: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Slow Cooker4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
3-4 pounds beef ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
- Prepare the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Prep the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (if not already removed) by using a knife to gently lift it and pulling it off with your fingers. Rub the ribs on both sides with the olive oil, then generously coat the ribs with the dry rub mixture, pressing it into the meat.
- Slow Cook the Ribs: Place the ribs in the slow cooker, standing them up if necessary to fit. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat pulls away easily from the bone.
- Apply the Barbecue Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low. This allows the sauce to set and become sticky.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the ribs are tender and fully coated with barbecue sauce, remove them from the slow cooker and slice them into individual servings. Serve immediately with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
