Slow Cooker BBQ Glazed Pork Ribs Recipe: Tender, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed
Looking for the easiest way to make fall-off-the-bone pork ribs? This Slow Cooker BBQ Glazed Pork Ribs recipe delivers mouthwatering, tender ribs with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, summer gatherings, or any time you crave classic barbecue flavor without firing up the grill.
Below you’ll find a step-by-step guide, detailed ingredients list, cooking tips, and answers to common questions to help you make the best BBQ pork ribs every time.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker BBQ Glazed Pork Ribs
Servings: 4–6
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3 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
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1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
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1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
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1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for a deep smoky flavor)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 large onion, sliced into rings
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Rub
In a small mixing bowl, combine:
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Mix thoroughly until the spices are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Season the Ribs
Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, coating both sides generously. This step helps develop a flavorful crust while the ribs cook.
Step 3: Layer the Onions
Place the sliced onion rings in an even layer on the bottom of your slow cooker insert. These will serve as a flavorful base and keep the ribs elevated, preventing them from sitting in excess liquid.
Step 4: Arrange the Ribs
Lay the seasoned ribs meat-side up on top of the onions. You can cut the rack into sections if needed to fit them inside the slow cooker.
Step 5: Add the Barbecue Sauce
Pour 1 cup of barbecue sauce evenly over the ribs, making sure every piece is well coated. This sauce will blend with the spices and juices as the ribs cook.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
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Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and nearly falling off the bone.
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For quicker cooking, set the slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 3–4 hours, though low and slow yields the best texture.
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Sheet
Carefully remove the ribs using tongs— they will be very tender. Place them on a foil-lined baking sheet for broiling.
Step 8: Broil for Caramelization
Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
Brush an extra layer of barbecue sauce on top of the ribs.
Broil for 3–5 minutes until the sauce becomes bubbly and caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the ribs to a serving platter. Spoon some of the caramelized onions from the slow cooker over the top for extra flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or potato salad.
Pro Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Ribs
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Remove the membrane: If your ribs still have the thin silver skin on the underside, peel it off before seasoning. This helps the spices penetrate better and improves tenderness.
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Customize the sauce: Use a spicy, sweet, or smoky barbecue sauce depending on your taste.
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Add liquid smoke: For extra smoky flavor, stir 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke into the sauce before pouring over the ribs.
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Storage: Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use beef ribs instead?
A: Yes! Just adjust the cooking time—beef ribs may take 7–9 hours on LOW.
Q: Do I have to broil the ribs?
A: Broiling isn’t required, but it creates a delicious caramelized finish you won’t get from slow cooking alone.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat ribs?
A: Wrap them in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hands-off cooking—prep in minutes, then let the slow cooker work.
Tender texture—slow cooking breaks down the meat beautifully.
Crowd-pleasing flavor—sweet, smoky, and perfectly glazed.
Easy cleanup—especially if you use a slow cooker liner.
If you try these Slow Cooker BBQ Glazed Pork Ribs, let us know how they turned out! Share your photos and tag us on social media for a chance to be featured.