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Using a slow cooker for BBQ baby back ribs offers a multitude of benefits that can elevate your cooking experience. One of the most significant advantages is convenience. With a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the ribs to cook slowly throughout the day while you attend to other tasks. This hands-off approach is especially appealing for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Slow Cooker BBQ Baby Back Ribs

Discover the secrets to juicy, tender, and flavorful Saucy Slow Cooker BBQ Baby Back Ribs! Perfect for busy days, this hands-off approach lets you set it and forget it while the ribs absorb amazing flavors from the BBQ sauce and spices. With just a few essential ingredients and easy steps, you can impress your family and friends with melt-in-your-mouth ribs that steal the show at any gathering. Perfect for summertime cookouts or cozy family dinners! #BBQRibs #SlowCookerRecipes #ComfortFood #EasyDinner #CookAtHome #Foodie
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Ingredients
  

2 racks baby back ribs (approximately 4-5 lbs)

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

2 teaspoons ground black pepper

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

2 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon honey

Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ribs: Carefully remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs. This is a thin membrane that can make the ribs chewy. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.

    Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.

      Season the Ribs: Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat both sides generously. Allow the ribs to sit for about 30 minutes for the flavors to penetrate.

        Mix the BBQ Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and honey until combined.

          Layer in the Slow Cooker: Pour a small amount of the BBQ sauce mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker (about 1/4 cup). Then, place one rack of ribs upright (curved side facing out) against the slow cooker wall, followed by the second rack in the same position. If the ribs are too long, you can cut them in half.

            Add Remaining Sauce: Pour the remaining BBQ sauce mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated. You can also brush some on the ribs if you like.

              Slow Cook the Ribs: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat pulls away from the bone easily.

                Finishing Touch (Optional): If you like your ribs caramelized, preheat your broiler. Carefully transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet lined with foil. Brush additional BBQ sauce over the ribs and broil for about 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

                  Serving: Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice between the bones to separate the ribs. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

                    Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 7-8 hours | Servings: 4-6