These Crockpot BBQ Beef Ribs are a real treat! They cook slowly to become tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Just let your slow cooker work its magic while you relax!
My favorite part? The smell that fills the house! You can’t help but feel hungry. 😋 I usually serve them with coleslaw and cornbread for a perfect meal. So easy and so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: The star of this dish! They become very tender in the slow cooker. If you can’t find short ribs, you could use beef back ribs or even chuck roast, but adjust cooking times since they might need slightly less time.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use your favorite bottled barbecue sauce or make your own. If you’re watching sugar intake, opt for a sugar-free version. I love using a spicy barbecue sauce for a little kick!
Beef Broth: This adds moisture and depth of flavor. You can substitute it with water, but beef broth gives a richer taste. Vegetable broth works too if you prefer a lighter flavor.
Onion & Garlic: These aromatics enhance the dish’s overall flavor. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can work as substitutes, but fresh is always best.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor When Cooking Ribs?
Searing the beef ribs at the beginning is a key step. This locks in moisture and deepens the flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat olive oil over medium-high in a skillet.
- Season the ribs and then place them in the hot skillet.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. This gives a nice crust.
- Add those beautiful, seared ribs to the crockpot, I promise it’s worth the extra step!
Lastly, let the ribs cook low and slow for the best tenderness. Trust the process—you’ll be rewarded with fall-off-the-bone goodness!
Crockpot BBQ Beef Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef short ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let the crockpot do its magic for 7 to 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. Total time = about 8 hours and 15 minutes waiting for the scrumptious ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Ribs:
Start by generously seasoning the beef short ribs with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Make sure to coat all sides evenly; this is where the flavor begins!
2. Searing the Ribs:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. When it’s hot, carefully place the ribs into the skillet and sear each side until they are nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is essential for locking in those delicious flavors!
3. Preparing the Crockpot:
Once the ribs are seared, transfer them to the crockpot and arrange them evenly so they cook nicely. Now, let’s prepare the flavorful sauce!
4. Making the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, beef broth (or water), brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and sliced onion. Stir it all well to combine the ingredients.
5. Cook the Ribs:
Pour this tasty mixture over the ribs in the crockpot. Cover the pot and let it cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The ribs should be super tender when they are done!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the ribs are cooked, carefully remove them from the crockpot and place them on a serving plate. For a richer sauce, you can thicken the liquid left in the crockpot by pouring it into a saucepan and simmering it over medium heat until it’s thickened to your liking.
7. Serving:
Spoon the thickened sauce over the ribs and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a complete meal!
Enjoy these tender, flavorful Crockpot BBQ Beef Ribs that effortlessly melt in your mouth! They’re perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Ribs in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef ribs, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or submerge them in cold water for a quick thaw. This will help ensure even cooking and tenderness!
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can substitute beef broth with water or chicken broth. However, using beef broth adds more depth of flavor, so if you have it, definitely stick with that option!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before by searing the ribs, mixing the sauce, and placing it all in the crockpot. Just refrigerate overnight and cook them the next day. They make great leftovers too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover BBQ beef ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep them moist.
