Effortless BBQ Bliss: Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs Recipe

Craving tender, fall-off-the-bone barbequed beef ribs but don’t want to spend hours tending to a smoker or grill? This slow cooker recipe is your answer! Achieve that smoky, flavorful goodness with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or anytime you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal. This recipe guides you through every step, from selecting the right ribs to crafting the perfect homemade barbeque sauce (or using your favorite store-bought option). Get ready to impress your family and friends with these ridiculously delicious slow cooker barbeque beef ribs!

Why Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs?

The beauty of using a slow cooker for barbequed beef ribs lies in its ability to transform tough cuts of meat into tender, succulent perfection. The low and slow cooking process breaks down the connective tissues, resulting in ribs that practically melt in your mouth. Plus, the slow cooker allows the flavors of the barbeque sauce to deeply penetrate the meat, creating a richer, more satisfying taste. Here are more reasons to love this method:

• Effortless: Minimal hands-on time. Simply prep the ribs, add the sauce, and let the slow cooker do its magic.
• Tender and Juicy: The slow cooking process ensures incredibly tender and juicy ribs that are easy to eat.
• Flavorful: The barbeque sauce infuses the ribs with a deep, smoky, and tangy flavor.
• Convenient: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to prepare a meal in advance.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at parties, barbecues, and family gatherings.

Choosing the Right Beef Ribs

Selecting the right cut of beef ribs is crucial for achieving the best results. There are two main types of beef ribs commonly used for barbeque:

• Beef Back Ribs: These are cut from the rib section closer to the backbone. They typically have less meat on them than short ribs, but they are still flavorful and can become incredibly tender in the slow cooker. They are often more affordable.
• Beef Short Ribs: These are cut from the plate (underbelly) of the cow and have much more meat on them. They are richer and more flavorful. English cut short ribs are often cut into individual pieces, while flanken-style short ribs are cut thinly across the bone. You can use either English cut or flanken style in this recipe, but English cut often provides a better presentation.

For this recipe, we recommend using either beef back ribs or English-cut short ribs. If using beef back ribs, you might want to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook faster than short ribs due to having less meat.

When selecting ribs, look for:

• Good marbling: Marbling (the streaks of fat within the meat) contributes to flavor and tenderness.
• Pinkish-red color: This indicates freshness.
• Firmness: The meat should feel firm to the touch, not mushy.
• Even thickness: Ribs of even thickness will cook more evenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make these mouthwatering slow cooker barbeque beef ribs:

• 3-4 pounds Beef Ribs (beef back ribs or English-cut short ribs)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 large Onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups Barbeque Sauce (homemade or your favorite store-bought brand)
• 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (adds tanginess and helps tenderize the meat)
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (adds depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor boost)
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional, enhances the garlic flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional, for a little heat)

For Homemade Barbeque Sauce (Optional):

• 1 1/2 cups Ketchup
• 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow Cooker (Crock-Pot): A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is recommended.
• Large Skillet: For searing the ribs.
• Tongs: For handling the ribs.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Small Bowl: For mixing the dry rub (salt, pepper, garlic powder etc.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide on how to make these delicious slow cooker barbeque beef ribs:

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Rinse and Pat Dry: Rinse the beef ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown better when seared.
2. Trim Excess Fat (Optional): If there’s a lot of excess fat on the ribs, you can trim some of it off. However, leaving some fat on will help keep the ribs moist and flavorful.
3. Season the Ribs: In a small bowl, combine the salt and pepper. Generously rub the mixture all over the ribs. If you’re using garlic powder, add it to the rub mix as well.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs

1. Heat Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Ribs: Sear the ribs on all sides until browned. This step adds a delicious crust and locks in the flavors. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will steam the ribs instead of searing them properly. Each side should take about 2-3 minutes to sear properly.
3. Remove and Set Aside: Once the ribs are seared, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Deglaze the Pan (Optional): Pour in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These browned bits add extra flavor to the sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Slow Cooker

1. Layer the Bottom: Place the sautéed onion and garlic mixture in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Arrange the Ribs: Arrange the seared ribs on top of the onion and garlic mixture. You can stack them if necessary.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the barbeque sauce, remaining apple cider vinegar, brown sugar (if using), Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika (if using), garlic powder (if using), and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine. If you’re making the homemade barbeque sauce, whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl until smooth.
4. Pour the Sauce: Pour the barbeque sauce mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Ribs

1. Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ribs are very tender and fall-off-the-bone. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the thickness of the ribs.
2. Cook on High (Alternative): If you’re short on time, you can cook the ribs on high for 3-4 hours, but cooking on low will yield the most tender results.

Step 6: Shred (Optional) and Serve

1. Remove the Ribs: Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker using tongs.
2. Shred (Optional): If desired, shred the ribs using two forks. This is great for making pulled pork sandwiches or serving over rice.
3. Serve: Serve the slow cooker barbeque beef ribs with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, mashed potatoes, baked beans, or grilled vegetables.
4. Optional Broiling/Grilling: For a caramelized finish, brush the ribs with extra barbeque sauce and broil them in the oven for a few minutes, or grill them over medium heat for a few minutes per side. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs

• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Overcrowding the slow cooker can prevent the ribs from cooking evenly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
• Don’t Lift the Lid Too Often: Lifting the lid of the slow cooker releases heat and moisture, which can prolong the cooking time. Avoid lifting the lid unless necessary.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the barbeque sauce before pouring it over the ribs and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may want to add more salt, pepper, sugar, or cayenne pepper, depending on your preference.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the ribs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ribs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C).
• Let the Ribs Rest: After removing the ribs from the slow cooker, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful ribs.
• Use a Liner: Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.

Variations and Additions

Here are some variations and additions you can try to customize your slow cooker barbeque beef ribs:

• Spicy Barbeque Ribs: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the barbeque sauce for a spicier kick.
• Honey Barbeque Ribs: Add a few tablespoons of honey to the barbeque sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Bourbon Barbeque Ribs: Add a shot of bourbon to the barbeque sauce for a richer, more complex flavor.
• Coca-Cola Barbeque Ribs: Add a can of Coca-Cola to the slow cooker along with the barbeque sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor. The acids help to tenderize the ribs.
• Dr. Pepper Barbeque Ribs: Substitute Dr. Pepper for Coca-Cola for a unique twist.
• Add Vegetables: Add chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or celery, to the slow cooker along with the ribs for a more complete meal.
• Liquid Smoke: A teaspoon of liquid smoke can enhance the smoky flavour, especially if not grilling at the end.
• Mustard: Adding a tablespoon or two of yellow or Dijon mustard to the BBQ sauce can add a nice tang.

Serving Suggestions

Slow cooker barbeque beef ribs are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some popular serving suggestions:

• Coleslaw: A classic pairing with barbeque ribs, coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and tanginess.
• Cornbread: Warm cornbread is a perfect accompaniment to barbeque ribs, soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and satisfying side dish.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans are another classic pairing with barbeque ribs.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables, such as corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers, add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
• Mac and Cheese: A creamy and cheesy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Potato Salad: A classic picnic side dish that pairs well with BBQ.
• Green Beans: A simple and healthy side dish.
• Salad: A crisp green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich ribs.
• Rolls or Buns: Serve the ribs on soft rolls or buns for easy sandwiches.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover slow cooker barbeque beef ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the ribs in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place the ribs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
• Slow Cooker: Reheat the ribs in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. Add a little extra barbeque sauce to keep them moist.
• Skillet: Heat the ribs in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a little water or broth to prevent them from drying out.

Recipe Card

Enjoy Your Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs!

These slow cooker barbeque beef ribs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The tender, flavorful meat and the rich, smoky barbeque sauce make for an unforgettable meal. So gather your family and friends, fire up the slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy the best barbeque ribs you’ve ever had!

Keywords

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