These slow cooker sweet barbecue pork ribs turn fall-apart tender, sticky-sweet and full of flavor. Country-style pork ribs get a quick dry rub, then slow cook on a bed of onions in a sweet BBQ sauce with brown sugar and apple cider vinegar. These crockpot ribs are the kind of set-it-and-forget-it comfort food you will make on repeat.

More slow cooker favorites: Creamy Crockpot Mushroom Chicken.

Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Ribs

Fall-apart tender.
Sticky, sweet BBQ sauce.
10 minutes of prep.
Budget friendly country-style ribs.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs

The Ribs and Rub

Country-style pork ribs, kosher salt, garlic powder, paprika and black pepper.

The BBQ Sauce

Sweet BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar and chicken broth.

The Aromatics

A sliced onion and garlic.

Dietary note: These ribs are gluten free when your BBQ sauce and broth are gluten free.

How to Make Slow Cooker Ribs

Step 1: Season the ribs

Season the ribs on all sides with salt, garlic powder, paprika and pepper.

Step 2: Layer

Add the onion to the bottom of the slow cooker, place the ribs on top and toss in the garlic.

Step 3: Make the sauce

Whisk the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar and broth, and pour over the ribs.

Step 4: Slow cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours until fork-tender.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Broil at the end for sticky, caramelized edges.
Smoked paprika adds deeper flavor.
Use honey instead of brown sugar if you like.
Reduce the sauce on the stove for a thicker glaze.

Make It Your Own

Baby back ribs: Use baby back ribs cut into sections.
Spicy: Add chipotle or cayenne.
Pulled pork: Shred and serve on buns.
Honey garlic: Use honey and extra garlic.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Season the ribs the night before. Leftovers reheat great for sandwiches.

What to Serve With BBQ Ribs

Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, mac and cheese or Cowboy Caviar.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the oven with extra sauce, or freeze for up to 3 months.

What People Ask About Slow Cooker Ribs

Can I use baby back ribs?

Yes. Cut them into sections to fit.

How long do ribs cook in the slow cooker?

7 to 8 hours on LOW.

Can I cook ribs on high?

Yes, 4 to 5 hours, but low is more tender.

How do I get crispy ribs?

Broil for a few minutes after slow cooking.