Fall-Off-The-Bone Slow Cooker Beef Ribs in Smoky BBQ Sauce
Tender, juicy beef ribs slow-cooked for hours in a rich, smoky, sweet, and tangy BBQ sauce until the meat becomes incredibly soft and nearly falls off the bone. An easy, delicious comfort-food dinner!
Ingredients
For the Beef Ribs
– 3–4 lbs (1.4–1.8 kg) beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Smoky BBQ Sauce
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– ½ cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Optional
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– Extra BBQ sauce for serving
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Season the Ribs
Pat the beef ribs dry with paper towels. Season them on all sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef ribs for 2–3 minutes per side until nicely browned. This adds extra flavor.
3. Prepare the BBQ Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, and soy sauce.
4. Prepare the Slow Cooker
If using onion, spread the chopped onion across the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the seasoned beef ribs on top.
5. Add the Sauce
Pour the smoky BBQ sauce mixture over the beef ribs, making sure they are well coated.
6. Slow Cook
Cover and cook until the beef is fork-tender:
– LOW: 7–8 hours
– HIGH: 4–5 hours
Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and size of the ribs.
7. Glaze the Ribs
Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker. Spoon some of the cooking sauce over them.
For a thicker, stickier glaze, transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer until reduced. Brush the glaze generously over the ribs.
8. Serve
Arrange the beef ribs on a serving platter and pour the remaining smoky BBQ sauce over the top. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, corn, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Beef Ribs
– Choose meaty beef short ribs for the best results.
– Searing before slow cooking adds deeper flavor.
– Avoid opening the slow cooker frequently.
– Cook until the meat is fork-tender.
– Use extra BBQ glaze just before serving for a beautiful glossy finish.
Storage
Store leftover beef ribs in an airtight container with some sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently until hot.