Description
Tender, smoky beef ribs slow-cooked to fall-off-the-bone perfection with a rich spice blend and homemade BBQ sauce. A hassle-free, crowd-pleasing recipe that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
3 lbs beef ribs (substitute short ribs if unavailable)
1 tbsp olive oil (coconut oil for rich flavor)
1–1.5 tsp salt
1–1.5 tsp black pepper
1–1.5 tsp paprika
1–1.5 tsp garlic powder
1–1.5 tsp onion powder
1–1.5 tsp chili powder (mountain seasoning as substitute)
2 cups BBQ sauce (soy-free or low-sodium)
1 tbsp alcohol-free Worcestershire sauce (ensure no fermented ingredients)
1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
1 tsp liquid smoke (optional)
Instructions
Pat beef ribs dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture.
In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder to create the spice blend.
Generously coat all sides of the ribs with the spice mixture.
Lightly oil the slow cooker and arrange the ribs inside for even cooking.
In a separate bowl, combine BBQ sauce, brown sugar (if using), alcohol-free Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke (if using) to create the sauce.
Pour the sauce over the ribs in the slow cooker and spread evenly.
Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, transfer the ribs to a baking sheet, brush with extra sauce, and broil 4–6 inches from the heat source for 3–5 minutes until glistening.
Plate the ribs with pickled vegetables and baked beans, drizzled with additional sauce.
Notes
Choose ribs with a 1.5″ bone-to-flesh ratio for optimal tenderness.
For deeper flavor, pre-season the rib slab and wrap in parchment to intensify smoke absorption.
If the sauce appears dry near the end, add ½ cup broth to avoid sticking or over-concentration.
Double the spice mix for smaller bone cuts to maintain flavor intensity.
Swap broiling with an air fryer (350°F for 8–10 minutes) for a crispier finish.
Leftovers pair well with garlic aioli for a charcuterie board twist.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 480
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Contemporary
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1–2 ribs)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg