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Slow-cooked beef spare ribs with BBQ sauce on a wooden plate.

Beef Spare Ribs Slow Cooker Recipe That Melts in Your Mouth!

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  • Author: Sam
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This beef spare ribs slow cooker recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tenderness with rich, deep flavors. Slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs are coated in a smoky, savory sauce that melts in your mouth. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this foolproof recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful ribs every time!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Ribs:

  • 3–4 lbs beef spare ribs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup beef broth or water

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ribs:

    • Pat the beef spare ribs dry with a paper towel.
    • Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness.

  2. Season the Ribs:

    • In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and brown sugar.
    • Rub the seasoning mix all over the ribs, ensuring even coverage.

  3. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional):

    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the ribs for 1-2 minutes per side to enhance their smoky flavor.

  4. Slow Cook the Ribs:

    • Place the ribs in the slow cooker.
    • Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the ribs.
    • Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the ribs are tender and pull apart easily.

  5. Prepare the Sauce:

    • In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce.
    • After cooking, brush the sauce over the ribs and let them sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

  6. Broil for a Caramelized Finish (Optional):

    • Preheat the oven broiler to high.
    • Place ribs on a baking sheet, brush with extra sauce, and broil for 3-5 minutes until caramelized.

  7. Serve & Enjoy:

    • Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes, then serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.

Notes

  • For extra tenderness, marinate the ribs in the spice rub overnight.
  • You can swap BBQ sauce with teriyaki or garlic butter sauce for different flavors.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours (on LOW) / 4-5 hours (on HIGH)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://www.freshleafrecipes.com/beef-spare-ribs-slow-cooker-recipe/