Imagine sinking your teeth into fall-off-the-bone tender ribs that are so juicy and flavorful, they'll transport you to a backyard barbecue paradise—without spending hours hovering over a grill! These slow-cooked crock pot barbecue pork loin back ribs are your ticket to an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal that requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum deliciousness. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend warrior looking for a hassle-free recipe, these ribs will become your new go-to comfort food that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork loin back ribs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather 3 pounds of pork loin back ribs, 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the pork ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and prepares the surface for seasoning.
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn't already been done. This thin layer can make the ribs tough and chewy. Use a sharp knife to lift the edge of the membrane, then grab it with a paper towel for a better grip and pull it off.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a dry rub.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- Place the seasoned ribs into the crock pot. You can cut them into smaller sections if necessary to fit them comfortably.
- Pour the 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure they are well covered. You can reserve some sauce for serving later if desired.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This low and slow method will ensure the ribs become tender and flavorful.
- After 6 hours, check the ribs for tenderness. They should be easily pulled apart with a fork. If they are not yet tender, you can continue cooking for an additional hour.
- Once the ribs are done, carefully remove them from the crock pot using tongs. Place them on a serving platter.
- If desired, you can brush additional BBQ sauce on the ribs for extra flavor. Serve the ribs hot with your favorite sides, and enjoy!
Tips
- Always remove the membrane from the back of the ribs to ensure maximum tenderness and better sauce absorption.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the ribs in the dry rub for 2-4 hours before cooking, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use a high-quality BBQ sauce that complements the pork's natural flavor—look for sauces with a good balance of sweet and tangy.
- If you prefer a slightly caramelized finish, transfer the ribs to a broiler for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking to create a delicious, slightly crispy exterior.
- Don't rush the cooking process. The low and slow method is crucial for breaking down tough connective tissues and creating melt-in-your-mouth ribs.
- For a more complex flavor profile, try mixing different types of BBQ sauce or adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to your sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for food safety, though these ribs will likely be much higher due to slow cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 120mg
