Tender Beef Back Ribs (Slow Cooker Recipe)
July 27, 2025 • 0 comments
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 4-6 (easily scalable!)
Ingredients
- 2 racks of beef back ribs (3-4 lb), membrane removed
- FOR THE DRY RUB:
- (1 tbsp of salt) 1 tbsp of salt
- 1 tbsp of black pepper
- 1 tbsp of smoked paprika
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of onion powder
- (optional for extra heat!) 1/2 tsp of cayenne
Directions
- Season the ribs: Mix the dry rub ingredients and coat the ribs on both sides. If needed, cut the racks in half to fit your slow cooker.
- Add liquid: Pour the apple cider vinegar and beef stock (or water) into the slow cooker.
- Load the ribs: Place the ribs upright in the slow cooker (meat side facing out, bones down if possible) so they cook evenly.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the ribs are tender and pull-apart ready.
- Sauce and finish: Carefully remove the ribs and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush them with Phlippen Sauce (and be generous!), then broil in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes to caramelize the sauce and add that sticky, finger-licking finish.
Complementary Sides:
- Coleslaw or cabbage slaw
- Oven-roasted baby potatoes or sweet potato wedges
- Grilled or sautéed seasonal vegetables (corn, zucchini, or bell peppers)
- Pickles or pickled vegetables
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use pork ribs instead of beef?
Yes! Pork back ribs or spare ribs work well. Reduce the cooking time slightly, as pork tends to cook faster than beef.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can season and slow-cook the ribs a day in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat in the oven, brushing with Phlippen Sauce before serving to refresh the glaze.
Can I cook the ribs from frozen?
It’s best to thaw the ribs completely for even cooking and optimal tenderness. Cooking from frozen is possible, but the slow cooker time will need to be extended, and results may be slightly less tender.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes! Any BBQ or glaze-style sauce will work, though Phlippen Sauce is recommended for its signature flavour profile.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs should be tender and pull-apart ready. A fork should easily slide into the meat, and the internal temperature should reach 145-160°F for beef ribs.
How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.n
Is this slow-cooker beef back ribs recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, this recipe can absolutely be kid-friendly! While beef back ribs are rich and flavourful, the slow cooking process makes them extra tender and easy to eat, even for younger children (bones can be easily removed before serving, too!). The recipe uses Phlippen Sauce, which comes in a variety of flavours like Original, Sweet Heat, and Hot. For kids or picky eaters, we recommend sticking with the Original. You can also use your favourite mild BBQ sauce if you prefer. Since the meat becomes so soft and pull-apart tender, it's easy to shred and serve without bones for little ones.
