Slow Cooker BBQ Baby Back (Print Version)

Perfectly tender baby back ribs seasoned with a flavorful dry rub, slow-cooked until succulent, then caramelized with BBQ sauce.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 3 pounds baby back pork ribs
02 - ½ yellow onion, sliced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - ½ cup water
05 - 1 cup BBQ sauce, to taste

→ Dry Rub

06 - 1 teaspoon brown sugar
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
09 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
10 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
12 - 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
13 - 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Remove the outer membrane from the back of the ribs by running a paring knife through the layer until it loosens. Peel off the membrane completely. Pat dry with paper towel.
02 - Mix all dry rub ingredients in a bowl. Evenly distribute and rub the mixture on both sides of the ribs.
03 - Place the ribs in a 6-quart slow cooker, either lined up or curled up against the sides. Add onions, garlic, and water to the center. Cover with the lid.
04 - Cook on LOW for 6 hours. Check if the ribs are tender. Avoid overcooking as they may fall apart.
05 - Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker and place on a sheet pan. Brush with BBQ sauce and broil for 2-4 minutes on the middle rack until caramelized.
06 - Serve the ribs with additional BBQ sauce if desired. Optionally, serve with cooked onions from the slow cooker.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Baby back ribs are leaner and more suitable for the slow cooker compared to other rib cuts.
02 - If the slow cooker is not big enough, cut the ribs into 2-3 pieces for better fit and even cooking.
03 - Avoid placing the ribs too close to the broiler to prevent burning during caramelization.
04 - The dry rub can be prepared up to 1 month in advance for convenience.