If you’re craving tender, melt-off-the-bone ribs but don’t want to slave over the grill or oven, this Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe is going to become your new best friend. I absolutely love how these ribs come out with that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and sticky from the sauce – all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Delicious: Set it and forget it in the crockpot for juicy ribs every time without standing over the stove.
- Perfect Flavor Combo: The sweet BBQ sauce combined with a smokey rub hits all the right notes for rib lovers.
- Family Favorite: My family goes crazy for this recipe – it’s become a weekend staple in our house.
- Great For Any Skill Level: Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a BBQ pro, you’ll find success with this recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients here are simple but work so well together. The rub builds the base flavor, then the sweet BBQ sauce and a touch of hickory liquid smoke add that irresistible depth. When you shop, grab a quality rack of pork ribs and your favorite sweet BBQ sauce – I always recommend Sweet Baby Ray’s because it’s reliably tasty, but feel free to experiment!
- Back pork ribs: Look for meaty ribs with a good fat layer for the juiciest results.
- Water: Helps keep the ribs moist during slow cooking.
- Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce: This sauce adds that signature sweet and tangy glaze I love.
- Hickory liquid smoke: Just a tiny bit gives you that smoky BBQ feeling without needing a smoker.
- Brown sugar: Adds caramelized sweetness to the rub.
- Onion powder: A subtle savory touch to deepen flavor.
- Black pepper: Brings a gentle kick.
- Garlic powder: Classic garlic flavor without the chopping.
- Paprika: Provides warmth and a mild smokiness to the rub.
Variations
I’ve played around with this Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe in so many ways – it’s really easy to tweak it to your liking or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Spicy kick: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or some chili powder to the rub when I want a little heat – it wakes up the flavor beautifully.
- Different BBQ sauces: Feel free to swap the sweet BBQ sauce for a smoky or spicy variety if you prefer a twist.
- Meat swaps: I’ve used baby back ribs or St. Louis style ribs with great success – just expect the same cook time.
- Low-sodium: Use a low-sodium BBQ sauce and reduce added salt in the rub for a lighter option.
How to Make Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Ribs Like a Pro
The first thing I always do is remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs – it’s that tough, thin membrane that can keep seasonings and sauce from soaking in. I find it easiest to lift an edge in the middle and peel it off in one piece. This step makes a huge difference in tenderness, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Cut and Rub
Next, cut the ribs into four manageable sections – this helps them fit nicely into the crockpot and ensures even cooking. Then, mix together your rub ingredients: brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. I love using my hands here to really massage that rub into every inch of the meat. This part smells incredible and sets the flavor foundation.
Step 3: Layering Flavors in the Crockpot
Place your rubbed ribs in the slow cooker. Pour one cup of water and the hickory liquid smoke around (not directly on) the ribs to spread the smoke flavor gently. If you prefer, you can also mix the liquid smoke into the rub instead—I’ve done it both ways with great results. Then, pour half a cup of Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce on top, letting it cascade over the ribs.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Set your crockpot to low for 7–8 hours or high for about 4 hours. The slow cooking melts the fat, softens the meat, and lets those flavors mingle beautifully. One thing I learned along the way: keep the lid locked on tight to trap all the steam – it’s what makes these ribs juicy and tender, every time.
Step 5: Sauce and Serve
When the ribs finish cooking, brush on some more warmed BBQ sauce for an extra glossy, sticky finish. That finishing touch is what makes everyone’s eyes light up at the dinner table. Serve them up right away and prepare for the compliments!
Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe
- Silver Skin Removal: Removing the membrane is key for tender ribs and better flavor absorption—don’t skip this step!
- Avoid Over-Smoking: Use only 2 tsp of liquid smoke; more can turn bitter or overpower the sweetness.
- Section Ribs for Even Cooking: Cutting your ribs makes them cook more evenly and fit nicely in the crockpot.
- Keep the Lid Closed: Resist the temptation to peek while cooking, so you retain all that steam and juiciness.
How to Serve Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
I usually finish my ribs off with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions – it adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness that cuts through the richness perfectly. If I’m feeling extra fancy, a few pickled jalapeño slices on the side bring a nice tangy kick.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, and some crispy oven-baked potato wedges. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette brightens up the plate. My family also loves classic baked beans alongside these ribs—it’s a real comfort food combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like to serve the ribs stacked on rustic wooden boards with little ramekins of extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Setting out a few small bowls of pickles, chopped onions, or even a tangy cucumber salad gives the whole presentation a fun, DIY vibe that guests love. It turns a casual meal into a feast everyone enjoys.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I always store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge, and they keep beautifully for up to 3 days. The meat stays tender and the sauce stays sticky, so you don’t lose any of that deliciousness.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, wrap portions tightly in foil and then pop in freezer bags. I’ve frozen ribs like this for up to two months and they thaw well overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just make sure to reheat gently to keep them juicy.
Reheating
My favorite way to reheat leftover ribs is covered in foil in a 300°F oven for about 20 minutes, with a little extra BBQ sauce brushed on top. This keeps them moist and tender instead of drying out. You can also warm them gently in the crockpot if you like.
FAQs
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Can I double the Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use two racks of ribs and double all the ingredients except for the hickory liquid smoke, which should stay the same to avoid overpowering the flavor. The cooking time remains about 7–8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. Just make sure your slow cooker is big enough to hold everything comfortably.
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Can I use other types of ribs?
Yes! While back pork ribs are traditional and juicy, I’ve had great success with baby back ribs or St. Louis style ribs. The cooking time stays the same, but you might notice slight differences in tenderness and flavor depending on the cut.
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Do I have to remove the silver skin from the ribs?
Removing the silver skin is highly recommended because it’s a tough membrane that prevents the rub and sauce from fully penetrating and can make ribs chewier. Taking it off results in more tender, flavorful ribs.
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Can I add more liquid smoke for a smokier flavor?
I wouldn’t advise adding more than 2 teaspoons of liquid smoke. It’s very concentrated and can quickly become bitter or overpower the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. If you want more smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a touch of chipotle powder to the rub instead.
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What sides go best with Crockpot ribs?
Classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, or potato wedges are perfect. For something lighter, a simple green salad or grilled vegetables complements the richness of these ribs well.
Final Thoughts
When I first tried this Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe, it changed my whole approach to cooking ribs at home. No more fussing with grills or ovens for hours—just set it up in the slow cooker and relax. I love how incredibly tender and flavorful these ribs turn out, and I guarantee you’ll get rave reviews from family and friends. Give it a whirl, and I promise you’ll add this to your go-to dinner rotation in no time!
Print
Crockpot Ribs with Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Ribs recipe delivers tender, flavorful pork ribs slow-cooked to perfection with a smoky barbecue sauce. The ribs are rubbed with a blend of brown sugar and spices, then cooked low and slow in a crockpot for effortless, fall-off-the-bone results. Ideal for a comforting meal without the fuss of the grill or oven.
Ingredients
Ribs and Sauce
- 1 rack back pork ribs
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce
- 2 tsp hickory liquid smoke (do not add more)
- More Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce for serving
Rub Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
Instructions
- Remove Silver Skin: Carefully lift an edge in the middle of the ribs and peel off the silver skin in one piece to ensure tender results.
- Cut Ribs: Cut the rack of ribs into 4 equal sections for easier handling and even cooking.
- Prepare the Rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this spice mix evenly all over the ribs using your hands.
- Arrange in Slow Cooker: Place the rubbed ribs into the slow cooker. Pour the water and hickory liquid smoke around the ribs (liquid smoke can alternatively be mixed into the rub). Then, pour the ½ cup BBQ sauce over the top of the ribs.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4 hours until ribs are tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Optional—brush ribs with warmed BBQ sauce before serving for extra flavor.
Notes
- Can this be doubled? Yes! Use two racks of ribs and double all ingredients except the liquid smoke. Cooking time remains the same. Keep the lid on the slow cooker for best results.
- Other Cuts: You can use any pork ribs with this recipe. The cooking time remains consistent regardless of the cut.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 rack ribs (approx. 6 ounces)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
