Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs

Get ready for a mouthwatering recipe that’s about to become your new go-to for BBQ season (or any season, really). These Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Picture this: perfectly cooked beef ribs, falling off the bone and coated in a smoky, sweet barbecue sauce that’ll have you licking your fingers in delight. And the best part? You don’t have to stand over a hot grill all day to make them. With a slow cooker, you can have these ribs ready with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Trust me when I say, these are the kind of ribs that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Let’s dive into why you’ll love them!

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs

These Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs are seriously a game-changer. Here’s why you’ll want to make them:

Effortless Cooking:

No need to babysit a grill or smoker for hours. Just throw the ribs into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. They cook low and slow until they’re perfectly tender, making your life easier.

Fall-Off-The-Bone Goodness:

The slow cooking process guarantees that your beef ribs are so tender they practically melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of tenderness that’s hard to achieve any other way.

Big Bold Flavors:

You’ll love the combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors from the homemade barbecue sauce. Each bite is packed with that classic barbecue taste you crave.

Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor:

This recipe uses simple ingredients, and the slow cooker does all the hard work for you. Less time spent cooking, more time enjoying those delicious ribs!

Perfect for Any Occasion:

Whether you’re hosting a weekend BBQ, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or serving a crowd at a game day party, these ribs are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs:

For the Beef Ribs:

• Beef Ribs: The star of the show. Bone-in beef ribs are ideal for this recipe, as they become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the ribs before cooking. It helps enhance the natural flavor of the meat.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth to the ribs.
• Onion Powder: Gives a bit of sweetness and earthy flavor that balances the richness of the beef.
• Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color.
• Olive Oil: For searing the ribs before adding them to the slow cooker (optional, but adds great flavor).

For the Barbecue Sauce:

• Ketchup: The base of your homemade barbecue sauce, giving it the perfect consistency and sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a caramelized sweetness to the sauce that balances out the acidity of the ketchup.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: For tanginess that brightens up the sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Gives the sauce a savory depth and a bit of umami.
• Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to round out the flavors.
• Smoked Paprika: To give the sauce a smoky kick that pairs perfectly with the beef.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the sauce with a rich, savory flavor.
• Ground Mustard: Adds a little heat and tang to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the sauce and balancing the flavors.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs:

Step 1: Season the Ribs

Start by patting the beef ribs dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the ribs generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This will create a flavorful base for your ribs.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs (Optional)

For an extra layer of flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step is optional, but it helps to develop a deep, savory flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Barbecue Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Add to Slow Cooker

Place the seared ribs into the slow cooker. Pour the homemade barbecue sauce over the ribs, making sure they are fully coated. If necessary, spoon some of the sauce under the ribs to ensure they’re well-covered.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The ribs are ready when they are fall-off-the-bone tender.

Step 6: Finish the Ribs

Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove them from the slow cooker. If you’d like a caramelized finish, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the ribs on a baking sheet, brush with more barbecue sauce, and bake for 10-15 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the ribs hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Pair them with your favorite sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a perfect meal!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 580
Total Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 850mg
Total Carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 22g
Protein: 37g
Vitamin A: 8%
Vitamin C: 3%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs

These Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here’s how to serve them:

With Classic Sides:

Serve your ribs with traditional BBQ sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. They’ll complement the smoky, sweet flavor of the ribs perfectly.

As a Main Dish:

Serve these ribs as the centerpiece of your meal. Pair them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a hearty dinner.

With a Side of Extra Sauce:

You can never have too much barbecue sauce! Serve the ribs with a side of extra homemade barbecue sauce for dipping.

Additional Tips

Skip the Searing:

If you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step. Just season the ribs and place them directly into the slow cooker. They’ll still turn out delicious, though searing adds extra flavor.

Make It Spicy:

If you like a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage Tips:

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or place the ribs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Freezing:

These ribs freeze well! After cooking, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or slow cooker for the best results.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use baby back ribs instead of beef ribs?
A1: Yes, you can substitute baby back ribs for the beef ribs in this recipe. They’ll cook a little faster, so check for tenderness after 4-5 hours on low.

Q2: Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?
A2: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought barbecue sauce works just as well. Just be sure to pick one that you love.

Q3: Can I cook these ribs on high heat in the slow cooker?
A3: Yes! If you’re in a hurry, you can cook the ribs on high for 4-5 hours. However, for the most tender results, I recommend cooking them on low for 6-8 hours.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q5: Can I make the barbecue sauce ahead of time?
A5: Yes, you can make the barbecue sauce up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Q6: Can I use other meats for this recipe?
A6: While beef ribs are the star of this recipe, you can try it with pork ribs or even chicken if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time based on the meat you use.

Q7: Do I need to flip the ribs during cooking?
A7: No need to flip the ribs! Just let them cook low and slow, and they’ll turn out tender without any flipping.

Q8: Can I make this recipe in the oven?
A8: Yes, you can make these ribs in the oven by cooking them at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 3-4 hours, basting with sauce halfway through.

Q9: How do I know when the ribs are done?
A9: The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and the meat starts pulling away from the bones. They should be super easy to shred with a fork.

Q10: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
A10: Yes! Add some onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the slow cooker for extra flavor and a complete meal. Just make sure to place them underneath the ribs so they cook properly.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs are the definition of a crowd-pleaser! Tender, flavorful, and easy to make, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a BBQ gathering, these ribs will steal the show. Try them today and let the slow cooker do the hard work while you sit back and enjoy the delicious results!

Print