Go Back
easy slow cooker ribs recipe

Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Ribs

Unlock the secrets to fall-off-the-bone tender ribs with these easy slow cooker and instant pot recipes, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Slow Cooker Ribs Ingredients
  • 2 full racks full racks of pork baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
Instant Pot Ribs Ingredients
  • 1 full rack pork baby back ribs (about 2-3 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon classic BBQ dry rub
  • 1 cup apple juice or beef broth
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce, divided
  • 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional)

Method
 

Slow Cooker Ribs Instructions
  1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for more tender results. Pat the ribs completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Season: In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this seasoning blend generously over both sides of the ribs.
  3. Create the Cooking Liquid: In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and beef broth.
  4. Cook: Place the seasoned ribs in your slow cooker (you may need to cut them to fit). Pour the sauce mixture over the ribs. Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours.
  5. Glaze & Serve: Carefully remove the ribs to a baking sheet. Brush with additional BBQ sauce and broil for 3-5 minutes until caramelized and sticky.
Instant Pot Ribs Instructions
  1. Prepare & Season: Remove the membrane from the ribs and pat dry. Cut the rack into 3-4 sections for easier handling. Rub the salt and dry rub all over the ribs.
  2. Pressure Cook: Pour the apple juice and liquid smoke (if using) into the Instant Pot. Place the trivet inside and arrange the rib sections on the trivet. Seal the lid and set to HIGH pressure for 25 minutes.
  3. Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
  4. Finish: Preheat your oven broiler. Transfer the ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush generously with BBQ sauce and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and charred in spots.

Notes

Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or potato salad. For storage, let leftover ribs cool completely, then place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F, covered with foil.