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Slow-Cooked BBQ Ribs with Smoky Sauce

Elina James
Fall in love with these Slow-Cooked BBQ Ribs with Smoky Sauce Tender, juicy ribs slow-cooked to perfection and coated in a rich, smoky BBQ sauce that’s packed with bold flavor. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for weekend dinners, backyard gatherings, or whenever you’re craving classic barbecue comfort food.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Ribs:
  • 3–4 lbs (1.3–1.8 kg) pork baby back ribs or spare ribs
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked for extra flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional for heat)
  • For the Smoky BBQ Sauce:
  • 1 1/2 cups ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup molasses or honey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional, but recommended)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Ribs : Remove the thin silver membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps them get more tender). In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder.Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
  • Step 2: Slow-Cook the Ribs : Place ribs in the slow cooker (cut into halves or thirds if needed to fit). Pour 1/2 cup water or broth into the bottom (do not pour over the ribs). Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until tender.
  • Step 3: Make the Smoky BBQ Sauce : In a saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and liquid smoke. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  • Step 4: Finish the Ribs : Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a grill. Transfer cooked ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush generously with BBQ sauce. Roast or grill for 8–10 minutes until the sauce caramelizes.
  • Step 5: Serve : Slice between the bones into individual ribs. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Keyword Slow-Cooked BBQ Ribs with Smoky Sauce