Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Ribs

BBQ ribs are a beloved staple of American cuisine, known for their rich flavor, tender texture, and the unmistakable smoky aroma that fills the air during cooking. Whether it's a backyard cookout, a family gathering, or a tailgate party, ribs are often the centerpiece of the feast, bringing friends and family together around the table. Among the myriad of rib recipes available, the Sweet & Smoky Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Ribs stand out for their ease of preparation, deep flavors, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Discover the joy of cooking with Sweet & Smoky Slow Cooker Honey BBQ Ribs! This easy recipe transforms tender baby back ribs into a flavorful masterpiece, perfect for any occasion. The slow cooker ensures melt-in-your-mouth meat coated in a rich, sticky honey BBQ sauce with a delightful smoky flavor. Ideal for cookouts, family dinners, or cozy nights at home, these ribs are sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the comfort of home-cooked BBQ goodness!

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Ingredients

2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds)

1 cup of honey

1 cup of BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Ribs: Start by removing the silver skin from the back of the ribs. This thin membrane can make the ribs chewy. Use a sharp knife to carefully lift an edge and then pull it off using a paper towel for a better grip.

Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine honey, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Season the Ribs: Rub the mixture generously on both sides of the ribs. Make sure every crevice is coated for maximum flavor!

Arrange in the Slow Cooker: Cut the racks into halves or thirds to fit them into the slow cooker. It’s fine if they’re stacked; the slow cooking will ensure even cooking.

Cook the Ribs: Pour any remaining marinade over the ribs in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 4-5 hours. The longer they cook, the more tender they will be.

Optional Broil Step: If you like a caramelized finish, preheat your oven’s broiler about 10 minutes before the ribs are done in the slow cooker. Carefully transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Brush with additional BBQ sauce, then broil for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Serve: Carefully slice between the bones to separate the ribs. Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side and enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours | Servings: 6-8