If you’re craving tender, flavorful ribs with a tropical twist, this recipe is for you. These easy slow cooker ribs are smothered in a mouthwatering pineapple teriyaki glaze that brings a hint of sweetness to every bite. Perfect for a laid-back weekend meal, they require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously season the ribs on both sides with salt and pepper, then rub each side with garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, place the ribs on it, and bake for 15 minutes on each side.
- Arrange the ribs in your slow cooker, either in sections or curled around the inside, with the meat side facing outward. Generously cover the ribs with barbecue sauce, setting some aside for later use. Cook the ribs on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, aiming for tenderness without the meat falling off the bone.
- Once cooked, serve the ribs warm with additional barbecue sauce drizzled on top. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- Baby back pork ribs (or spare ribs, country-style ribs)
- Salt (for seasoning)
- Black pepper (for seasoning)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Brown sugar
- Barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought like Stubb’s or Sweet Baby Ray’s)
- baking the ribs at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes on each side, and cooking in a slow cooker on LOW for 4-6 hours.
Nutritional Values
Calories: 716kcal | Carbohydrates: 94g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 98mg | Sodium: 2460mg | Potassium: 891mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 76g | Vitamin A: 539IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 122mg | Iron: 3mg
FAQ
- Can I use different types of ribs for this slow cooker recipe?
- Yes, you can use baby back ribs, spare ribs, or country-style ribs. Many people prefer baby back pork ribs for their tenderness and flavor.
- What is the reason for pre-baking the ribs before placing them in the slow cooker?
- Pre-baking the ribs helps to seal in their juices and render some of the fat. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the ribs when they are slow-cooked.
- How long should I cook the ribs in the slow cooker?
- Cook the ribs on the LOW setting for 4 to 6 hours. The ribs should be tender but not completely falling off the bone, with most usually done around the 4-hour mark.
- What can I serve with slow cooker ribs?
- Ribs pair well with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, baked beans, potato salad, and cornbread. These sides complement the flavors of the BBQ ribs beautifully.
- Do I need to remove the membrane from the ribs before cooking?
- Yes, it’s recommended to remove the white, shiny membrane from the back of the ribs if it is present, as it can be tough and chewy when cooked.
Tips
- Pre-Bake the Ribs: Before placing the ribs in the slow cooker, pre-bake them at 400°F for 15 minutes on each side. This step helps to seal in the juices and render some of the fat, enhancing the final flavor and texture.
- Remove the Membrane: Check the underside of the ribs for a white, shiny membrane. If it’s present, carefully remove it to allow the seasonings to penetrate better and to improve the tenderness of the ribs.
- Use a Slow Cooker Liner: To make cleanup easier, consider using a slow cooker liner. It saves time and effort, especially when dealing with sticky barbecue sauces.
- Select the Right Ribs: Baby back ribs are recommended for this recipe, but you can also use spare ribs or country-style ribs. Choose the type based on your preference, but ensure they fit well in your slow cooker.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker – Essential for cooking the ribs. If you don’t already own one, it’s a key piece of equipment for this recipe.
- Slow Cooker Liners – These are optional but recommended for easy cleanup after cooking.
- Large Baking Sheet – Needed for pre-baking the ribs in the oven.
- Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil – Used to line the baking sheet when pre-baking the ribs.
