Crockpot Ribs Recipe

Fall-Off-The-Bone Goodness: Ultimate Crockpot Ribs Recipe

Get ready to indulge in tender, juicy ribs that practically melt in your mouth with our irresistible Crockpot Ribs recipe. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a family dinner, or simply craving some delicious comfort food, these slow-cooked ribs are sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of your trusty crockpot, you can achieve perfectly cooked ribs that are bursting with flavor. Join us as we embark on a journey to culinary bliss and discover the secret to making the ultimate ribs right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 6 pounds St. Louis-style pork spareribs or baby back ribs
• 3 tablespoons smoked paprika or regular paprika
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 24 ounces BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade) – Blue’s Hog original recommended
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (if the barbecue sauce is on the sweet side)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs: If necessary, remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for better seasoning penetration. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
2. Season the Ribs: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the ribs, covering them evenly.
3. Layer in the Crockpot: Place the seasoned ribs in the crockpot, standing them up against the walls of the pot with the meaty side facing outward. If necessary, cut the ribs into smaller pieces to fit.
4. Add BBQ Sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, making sure to coat them generously. If the barbecue sauce is on the sweeter side, add the apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.
5. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook the ribs on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bones.
6. Optional Broiling: For extra caramelization and flavor, transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Brush them with additional barbecue sauce and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes, until slightly charred.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the ribs from the crockpot or baking sheet and transfer them to a serving platter. Cut them into individual portions and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Enjoy the fall-off-the-bone goodness!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Dry Rub Options: Feel free to customize the dry rub with your favorite spices and seasonings. Add a hint of garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, or chili powder for a unique flavor profile.
• Homemade BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different homemade barbecue sauce recipes to tailor the flavor to your preference. Whether you prefer sweet and tangy or smoky and spicy, there’s a homemade sauce recipe out there for you.
• Beer Bath: For added moisture and flavor, consider adding a bottle of beer to the crockpot along with the barbecue sauce. The beer will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with rich, malty flavors.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Indulging in mouthwatering ribs doesn’t have to derail your keto or low-carb lifestyle. Here are some adjustments to make Crockpot Ribs keto-friendly:

Keto Version:

• Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce: Use a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own keto-friendly version using tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and keto-friendly sweeteners such as erythritol or stevia.
• No Added Sugar Rub: Omit the brown sugar from the dry rub and use a combination of spices such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for flavor.
• Low-Carb BBQ Sauce: Look for store-bought barbecue sauces that are low in carbs or make your own using tomato paste, vinegar, liquid smoke, and spices.

Low-Carb Version:

• Skip the Sugary Sauce: Use a tangy vinegar-based sauce or a dry rub without added sugar to keep the carb count low.
• Watch Portion Sizes: Enjoy smaller portions of ribs to keep your carb intake in check, and pair them with low-carb side dishes such as roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
• Focus on Protein: Load up on the protein-rich ribs and skip the high-carb sides for a satisfying and low-carb meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use different types of ribs for this recipe? Yes, you can use St. Louis-style spareribs or baby back ribs, depending on your preference. Both types of ribs will work well in this recipe.
2. How do I know when the ribs are done cooking? The ribs are done cooking when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bones. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the ribs reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
3. Can I cook the ribs on high heat instead of low? While cooking the ribs on low heat allows for more tender and flavorful results, you can cook them on high heat for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time. Keep an eye on them to prevent them from overcooking.
4. Can I freeze leftover ribs? Yes, you can freeze leftover ribs for future enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. What can I serve with crockpot ribs? Crockpot ribs pair well with a variety of side dishes, including coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Crockpot Ribs are the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to backyard barbecues. With their fall-off-the-bone tenderness and mouthwatering flavor, these slow-cooked ribs are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Plus, with our keto and low-carb variations, you can enjoy this delicious dish while staying true to your dietary goals. So fire up your crockpot, grab your favorite barbecue sauce, and get ready to savor every bite of these irresistible ribs. Your taste buds will thank you!