Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to set it and forget it.
• Homemade Barbecue Sauce: A blend of pantry staples creates a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the beef ribs.
• Tender and Flavorful: Slow cooking ensures the ribs become tender and infused with rich flavors.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple, common ingredients make this recipe both accessible and budget-friendly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup vinegar
• 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 pounds beef back ribs

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In your slow cooker, combine the water, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, and salt. Stir until the brown sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
2. Add the Ribs: Place the beef back ribs into the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce.
3. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let the ribs cook for approximately 8 hours, or until they are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
4. Serve: Once cooked, transfer the ribs to a serving platter and drizzle with the remaining sauce from the slow cooker. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for some heat.
• Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of liquid smoke into the sauce to mimic that smoky barbecue taste.
• Honey-Barbecue: Replace half of the brown sugar with honey for a sweeter, more pronounced flavor.
• Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic or garlic powder to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Different Cuts: While beef back ribs are recommended, this recipe can also work with short ribs or spare ribs; adjust cooking times as necessary.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled ribs in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the ribs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until warm.

FAQs

Can I use pork ribs instead of beef ribs?

Yes, pork ribs can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so monitor for tenderness.

Do I need to brown the ribs before placing them in the slow cooker?

Browning the ribs is optional. While it can add extra flavor and color, the ribs will still be delicious without this step.

Can I cook the ribs on high to reduce the cooking time?

Yes, you can cook the ribs on high for about 4-5 hours, but for the most tender results, cooking on low heat is recommended.

What type of vinegar should I use?

White distilled vinegar is commonly used, but apple cider vinegar can add a subtle sweetness to the sauce.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If the sauce is too thin after cooking, transfer it to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the ribs?

Yes, adding onions, carrots, or potatoes can enhance the flavor and provide a built-in side dish.

Is it necessary to remove the membrane from the ribs before cooking?

Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs can help the sauce penetrate better and result in more tender meat, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce. Simply pour it over the ribs in the slow cooker.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

The ribs are done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

What sides pair well with these ribs?

Classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or mashed potatoes complement these barbequed beef ribs beautifully.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs offer a hassle-free way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or

Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
• Total Time: ~8 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs are melt-in-your-mouth tender and packed with rich, smoky flavors. With a simple homemade barbecue sauce, this set-it-and-forget-it recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone ribs with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days when you want a hearty, comforting meal!

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Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 2 tbsp prepared mustard
• 1 tbsp salt
• 2 lbs beef back ribs

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Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Sauce – In the slow cooker, mix water, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, and salt until well combined.
2️⃣ Add the Ribs – Place beef ribs into the slow cooker, coating them in the sauce.
3️⃣ Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours) until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
4️⃣ Serve – Transfer ribs to a platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and enjoy!

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Notes

✔ Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
✔ Smoky Flavor – Stir in 1 tsp liquid smoke for a deep BBQ taste.
✔ Sweet & Tangy – Replace half the brown sugar with honey.
✔ Different Cuts – Short ribs or spare ribs work too; adjust cooking time as needed.