Ingredients
4 lbs beef ribs
1 cup barbecue sauce (any style you like)
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
½ cup beef broth (or water)
Instructions
1. Prepare the ribs
Pat ribs dry.
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Optional: Brown the ribs in a skillet for 3–4 minutes per side for extra flavor.
2. Build the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
Barbecue sauce
Brown sugar
Worcestershire
Vinegar
Garlic
Chili powder (if using)
3. Slow cook
Place sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Layer ribs on top.
Pour beef broth around the ribs (not on top).
Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the ribs.
4. Cook
Low: 7–9 hours
High: 3.5–5 hours
Cook until the ribs are extremely tender and nearly falling off the bone.
5. Finish (optional, but recommended)
For sticky, caramelized ribs:
1. Preheat broiler or grill.
2. Brush ribs with extra BBQ sauce.
3. Broil/grill 3–5 minutes until slightly charred.
Serving suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes, cornbread, coleslaw, or grilled veggies.
Pour leftover slow-cooker juices over the ribs or reduce them in a saucepan for a thicker glaze.
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