There is something mighty satisfying about turning a simple rack of baby back ribs into a Labor Day supper that tastes like you tended a smoker all afternoon, when in truth the slow cooker did the heavy lifting for you. This kind of recipe suits busy holiday weekends so well, and it has that practical Midwestern charm I always admire: just a handful of pantry staples, a raw rack of ribs, and a patient little appliance making the house smell like supper is on the way.
These tender ribs are lovely with creamy potato salad, baked beans, buttered corn on the cob, or a crisp cabbage slaw to balance the sweet and tangy sauce. If you want to round things out for a backyard-style meal, add slices of watermelon, dill pickles, and plenty of napkins, and serve with iced tea or cold lemonade.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Labor Day Kickoff Ribs
Servings: 4 to 6
Ingredients
1 rack baby back ribs, about 2 1/2 to 3 pounds
Directions
1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs if it is still attached, then cut the rack into 2 or 3 sections so the ribs will fit comfortably in the slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Arrange the rib sections in the slow cooker, curling them around the sides if needed, then pour the sauce mixture over the ribs and coat them as evenly as you can.
4. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 7 hours or on High for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, until the ribs are very tender.
5. Carefully transfer the ribs to a serving platter. If you like, spoon a little extra sauce from the cooker over the top before serving.
Variations & Tips
For extra sticky ribs: If you want a thicker, clingier finish, place the cooked ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with more sauce, and broil for 2 to 4 minutes until the edges begin to caramelize.
Make them a little smoky: A small pinch of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke added to the sauce gives these ribs a backyard barbecue feeling without ever lighting the grill.
Keep the ribs from overcooking: Slow cooker ribs go from tender to falling completely apart in a hurry, so check them at the early end of the cooking time, especially if your cooker runs hot.
Try a sweeter or tangier sauce: Use a honey barbecue sauce for a sweeter finish, or a more vinegary regional-style sauce if your family likes a sharper bite with rich pork.
Serve for a crowd: If you are doubling the recipe, be sure the ribs still fit in a single layer or gentle coil so they cook evenly, and give yourself a little extra time if the cooker is quite full.
