Crock Pot Ribs (keto + low carb)
Try these ultra tender Crock Pot Ribs for the perfect easy meal! First ribs are seasoned with a smokey BBQ rub, cooked until super tender and then smothered in BBQ sauce and broiled to perfection!
Crock Pot Ribs
These amazing Crock Pot Ribs are perfect for nearly any occasion! It doesn’t take hours over a hot, smoky grill to create fall-off-the-bone, tender, juicy ribs. All you need is a delicious rub, several hours in a crock pot, and some time under the broiler!
These ribs cook for about 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high, making it the perfect low-effort recipe. Pop the seasoned ribs and the sauce into the crockpot in the morning, do your own thing all day long, then come back to deliciously juicy ribs later. The flavor from this cook is amazing, but the time spent under the broiler really helps solidify a beautiful layer of crispy caramelization that can’t be beat!
If you love freezer meals but are tired of casseroles and soups, this makes a fantastic freezer meal prep! Simply season the ribs and store in a freezer bag. You can even mix up the barbecue sauce ingredients ahead of time, pour it into a snack-size bag, and then store that with the ribs in the freezer. This makes it a great option to keep for a convenient weeknight meal, a gift for new parents, or an easy offering for neighbors in need of a good homecooked meal.
Ingredients for BBQ Ribs
- Pork Ribs: there are several different cuts of ribs you can try. We always use Baby Back Ribs from Butcher Box. However St. Louis style ribs also work great in this recipe.
- Dry Rub: I make a homemade rub with sugar free sweetener and basic spices you probably already have on hand. You can follow the recipe listed below, or just make this in a big batch and save for all your favorite BBQ style recipes.
- BBQ Sauce: if you are keto or low carb you will need to use a sugar free sauce like this one. If not, follow your heart.
- Apple Cider Vinegar and Liquid Smoke: these two ingredients add amazing depth and give you that rich tangy flavor you love.
How do you season Ribs?
To prepare the ribs flip them over and use a knife to carefully separate the silver membrane from the rest of the ribs. The membrane is thin and hard to hold, so grab a few paper towels and get a good grip and carefully, evenly pull the membrane from the ribs. Alternatively, you can buy ribs where this has already been done.
To season the ribs rub each side very generously with the BBQ rub. Be sure to get all sides for the best flavor!
How to cook Ribs in a Crock Pot?
- Lightly spray a crock pot and place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker. Next, mix up BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar and liquid smoke.
- Pour the sauce over the ribs. Secure with a lid.
How long to cook Ribs in a Crock Pot?
Ribs are cooked through when they have reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees F. This generally takes 4 hours on high, or 8 hours on low in the crock pot. Depending on the thickness of your ribs, or how your crock pot runs the timeline is just an estimate.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Ribs
- Crock Pot: Use the best size and shape for your cut of meat. I used a 6 quart oval crock pot.
- BBQ Sauce: If you wouldn’t eat the sauce on it’s own, don’t put it on your ribs! Use a quality sauce for the best flavor!
- Membrane: Though it is possible to eat this portion of the ribs it can have an undesirable texture. It is best to remove this.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The ribs are done when they have reached an internal temp of 145 degrees F.
- Brush and Broil: The most important step! Once the ribs are done brush them with more sauce (and drippings left in the crock pot!) and broil until the sauce begins to caramelize.
What BBQ sauce do you use for ribs?
Your favorite store bought or homemade sauce will do! If you are keto or low carb you will need to use a sugar free version like this one.
What to serve with Ribs?
Everyone knows ribs are best with slaw and a side of pickles! Some of my other favorite sides include:
- Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
- Green Bean Fries
- Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
- The Best Cheesy Cornbread
- Fried Green Tomatoes
Other Pork Recipes
- How to Smoke a Boston Butt
- Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
- Blackened Pork Chops
- How to Cook a Thick Cut Pork Chop
- Pecan Crusted Pork Chops
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Ribs (keto + low carb)
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork baby back ribs
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar sweetener, monkfruit if keto
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon EACH onion powder, garlic powder and paprika
- 3 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup bbq sauce, low carb if keto + more for brushing
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- dash of liquid smoke, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the botton side of the ribs. See notes below if you are unsure how to do this.
- Combine the rub ingredients (brown sugar sweetener, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, seasoned salt and pepper) in a small bowl. Rub the BBQ mix evenly over each side of the ribs.
- Place the ribs in a lightly greased 4-6 quart slow cooker. In a mixing bowl combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar and liquid smoke if using. Pour over the ribs.
- Secure the lid on the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Carefully the ribs on a baking sheet and brush with additional BBQ sauce and the cooking liquid from the crock pot if desired. Broil for 3-4 minutes until the edges become caramelized.
Notes
Why is there no nutritional information?
That is important.
You scrolled past it to type this comment. The nutritional information is always provided under the recipe in the dark blue box.