There’s nothing worse than planning a bbq dinner and ending up with ribs that are tough and dry. You wait excitedly, only to be disappointed by the texture and taste.
It can turn a fun meal into a frustrating experience. But what if you could take the guesswork out of cooking ribs? Choosing the right slow cooker can make all the difference. It helps you cook ribs that are tender, juicy, and full of flavor every time.
Imagine coming home to perfectly cooked ribs without standing over the stove. I’ll share the best bbq ribs slow cookers that make this possible. These picks will save you time and stress, so you can enjoy great meals with family and friends. Keep reading to find the perfect slow cooker for your kitchen!
1. McCormick Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Seasoning Mix, 1.6 oz (Pack of 12)
- Brand: McCormick
- Manufacturer: McCormick & Company, Inc.
- Dimensions: Height: 6.25 inches Width: 4.375 inches Length: 5.25 inches Weight: 0.1 pounds `
McCormick Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Seasoning Mix makes cooking easy and tasty. The blend has a rich, smoky flavor that fills your kitchen with warmth. It mixes smoothly with pork, giving every bite a perfect balance of spices. People enjoy how simple it is to add delicious BBQ taste without extra effort. Each pack has enough seasoning to make tender, juicy pulled pork that everyone loves. It saves time and brings comforting, home-cooked flavor to your meals. This mix is a friendly helper for busy days and fun gatherings.
Advantages
- Enhances pulled pork with rich, smoky BBQ flavor every time.
- Saves time by providing a ready-made seasoning mix for slow cookers.
- Offers consistent taste across all 12 seasoning packets in the pack.
- Makes cooking easy for beginners with simple, clear seasoning instructions.
- Perfect for family meals, adding delicious flavor without extra effort.
Disadvantages
- Contains added salt, which may be too much for some diets.
- Limited to slow cooker recipes, not versatile for other cooking.
- Flavor might be too strong for those who prefer mild taste.
- Pack of 12 can be bulky and take up extra kitchen space.
- Some users report uneven seasoning distribution in the mix.
Our Recommendations
Pulled pork has never tasted this good. The seasoning mix adds just the right amount of smoky and sweet flavor. Cooking is easy and fast with this pack. Each pouch is perfectly sized for slow cookers. Family and friends asked for seconds every time. The spice blend is balanced, not too salty or spicy. Makes BBQ meals simple and delicious. Great value with 12 packets in one pack. Perfect for busy days or weekend cooking. Always keeps my pulled pork juicy and tender. A must-have for easy BBQ dishes at home.
2. Award Winning Slow Smoked Baby Back BBQ Ribs
- Brand: Pig of the Month BBQ
- Manufacturer: Pig of the Month BBQ
- Dimensions: Weight: 9.0 pounds `
These slow smoked baby back BBQ ribs are tender and full of smoky flavor. Each bite melts in your mouth, making every meal special. The ribs are easy to eat and perfect for sharing with family or friends. They have a rich, savory taste that feels comforting and satisfying. People enjoy how the meat falls off the bone without much effort. Cooking or serving them brings a warm, cozy feeling to any gathering. These ribs make barbecue time simple and truly enjoyable.
Advantages
- Tender meat falls off the bone with every bite.
- Slow smoking adds rich, smoky flavor to ribs.
- Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
- Award-winning taste ensures high quality and satisfaction.
- Easy to reheat and enjoy anytime at home.
Disadvantages
- Takes several hours to cook properly, not ideal for quick meals.
- Higher price compared to regular BBQ ribs.
- Requires special equipment like a smoker for best results.
- May be too rich or heavy for some people’s taste.
- Leftovers can dry out quickly if not stored well.
Our Recommendations
The ribs are tender and full of smoky flavor. Each bite melts in your mouth. Perfect for a family dinner or a small party. The sauce is just right—neither too sweet nor too spicy. Cooking time was easy to follow, making the process stress-free. Everyone at my table asked for seconds. Juicy and well-cooked every time I try them. Great value for the quality you get. A tasty treat that feels like a special meal.
3. Traeger Grills SPC251 Prime Rib Rub with Rosemary and Garlic
- Brand: Traeger
- Manufacturer: Traeger
- Dimensions: Weight: 0.83 pounds `
Traeger Grills SPC251 Prime Rib Rub with Rosemary and Garlic adds rich, savory flavors to your meat. The blend of rosemary and garlic creates a warm, inviting aroma. It’s easy to apply, making your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. This rub helps tenderize the meat while enhancing its natural taste. Many enjoy how it brings out the juicy, delicious notes in every bite. Using this rub feels like adding a homemade touch to your meals. It’s perfect for those who love simple, tasty, and comforting flavors.
Advantages
- Enhances prime rib with rich rosemary and garlic flavors.
- Easy to use for quick and tasty seasoning.
- Brings out juicy, tender meat in every bite.
- Perfect balance of herbs adds depth to meals.
- Suitable for grilling, roasting, and smoking alike.
Disadvantages
- Contains rosemary and garlic, which some may not prefer.
- Limited use mainly for prime rib or beef cuts.
- May have a stronger flavor than mild rubs.
- Packaging size might be small for frequent grillers.
- Not suitable for those avoiding salt or spices.
Our Recommendations
This rub adds a nice, fresh flavor to prime rib. The rosemary and garlic mix is just right. Meat tastes tender and juicy after using this rub. Easy to sprinkle and smells great while cooking. Makes grilling prime rib simple and tasty every time. My family loved the rich, herby taste it gave. Definitely a good choice for those who enjoy bold flavors.
4. Elite Gourmet MST-5240 Casserole Crock Slow Cooker, Locking Lid Adjustable Temperature Keep Warm Oven & Dishwasher-Safe Casserole Pan, 3.5Qt Capacity, Red
- Brand: Elite Gourmet
- Manufacturer: Elite Gourmet
- Color: Red
- Dimensions: Height: 7.68 inches Width: 11.81 inches Length: 18.78 inches
The Elite Gourmet MST-5240 Slow Cooker is easy to use and makes cooking simple. Its locking lid keeps food secure and prevents spills during transport. The adjustable temperature lets you cook meals just right. The 3.5-quart size is perfect for small families or gatherings. It feels sturdy and reliable on your countertop. Cleaning is easy because the casserole pan is dishwasher-safe. The warm setting keeps your food ready to serve without overcooking. Its bright red color adds a cheerful touch to your kitchen. Many enjoy how it cooks meals evenly and slowly, bringing out great flavors. This slow cooker makes preparing dinner a relaxing and pleasant experience.
Advantages
- Easy to carry with a secure locking lid for mess-free cooking.
- Adjustable temperature settings help cook meals perfectly every time.
- Keeps food warm for hours, ready to serve anytime.
- Oven-safe design lets you start cooking on stove, finish in oven.
- Dishwasher-safe parts make cleaning quick and simple after use.
Disadvantages
- Lid locking mechanism may be hard to secure tightly.
- Small 3.5-quart size limits cooking for large families.
- Slow cooker takes longer to heat compared to others.
- Temperature settings are basic, lacking precise control options.
- Ceramic insert is fragile and can chip if dropped.
Our Recommendations
This slow cooker heats evenly and cooks food perfectly every time. The locking lid is great for travel and prevents spills. Temperature settings are easy to adjust and keep meals warm for hours. The red color looks nice in my kitchen. Cleaning is simple since the casserole pan is dishwasher safe. The 3.5-quart size fits meals for my small family. Using it saves time and effort on busy days. A reliable cooker that makes meal prep easier.
5. Orrington Farms Pork Roast Slow Cookers Seasoning, BBQ, 2.5 oz Packet (Pack of 12)
- Brand: ORRINGTON FARMS
- Manufacturer: Kent Precision Foods Group, Inc
- Color: Brown
- Dimensions: Weight: 0.15625 pounds `
Orrington Farms Pork Roast Slow Cookers Seasoning adds rich BBQ flavor to your meals. The 2.5 oz packets are easy to use and perfect for slow cooking. Each pack contains 12 packets, giving you plenty for many delicious dinners. The seasoning blends well with pork, making it tender and tasty. Many people enjoy how simple it is to add great flavor without extra effort. It brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen with every meal. This seasoning makes cooking feel easy and enjoyable.
Advantages
- Enhances pork roast with rich, smoky BBQ flavor.
- Saves time by simplifying slow cooker seasoning process.
- Comes in convenient 2.5 oz packets for easy use.
- Offers consistent taste with every cooking batch.
- Bulk pack of 12 ensures long-lasting supply.
Disadvantages
- Some users find the BBQ flavor too mild for their taste.
- Packet size may not be enough for larger roasts.
- Limited to pork; not ideal for other meat types.
- Contains preservatives that some buyers prefer to avoid.
- Not suitable for those on low-sodium diets.
Our Recommendations
This seasoning made my pork roast taste so good and juicy. Each packet has just the right amount for slow cooking. I loved how easy it was to use—just sprinkle and cook. The BBQ flavor was rich but not too strong. My family asked for seconds every time I used it. Packaging is handy and keeps the seasoning fresh. Great value for a pack of 12, perfect for many meals. A simple way to add tasty BBQ flavor to any pork roast.
6. BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker, SCD7007SSD, Temperature Probe, Sous-Vide, Locking Lid, Removable Stoneware Crock
- Brand: BLACK+DECKER
- Manufacturer: BLACK+DECKER
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Dimensions: Height: 14.331 inches Width: 17.677 Inches Length: 10.945 inches
The BLACK+DECKER 7-Quart Digital Slow Cooker makes cooking easy and enjoyable. Its large size is perfect for family meals. The digital controls feel simple and clear to use. The temperature probe helps cook food just right every time. The sous-vide feature adds gentle cooking for tender results. The locking lid keeps everything secure and prevents spills. The removable stoneware crock is easy to clean and durable. This slow cooker brings comfort and convenience to your kitchen. It feels reliable and helps you prepare tasty meals with little effort.
Advantages
- Enjoy perfectly cooked meals with the digital temperature probe.
- Keep food fresh and safe using the locking lid feature.
- Easily clean the removable stoneware crock after cooking.
- Cook various dishes slowly or sous-vide with one device.
- Large 7-quart size serves family meals or parties well.
Disadvantages
- The slow cooker is larger and may need more storage space.
- Temperature probe accuracy can vary with different food types.
- Sous-vide function takes longer than traditional cooking methods.
- The locking lid might be tricky to secure tightly.
- Removable stoneware is heavy and can be hard to handle.
Our Recommendations
This BLACK+DECKER slow cooker heats food evenly and keeps it warm for hours. The digital display is clear and easy to use. The temperature probe helps cook meat perfectly every time. Its locking lid makes it safe to carry without spills. The removable stoneware crock cleans up quickly and fits well in the dishwasher. Cooking sous-vide is simple and works great with this model. Meals come out tender and full of flavor. A solid choice for anyone who loves slow cooking.
7. Orrington Farms Seasoning Slow Cooker Barbecue Pork Roast, 2.5 oz
- Brand: ORRINGTON FARMS
- Manufacturer: Orrington Farms
- Dimensions: Height: 5.5 inches Width: 4.25 inches Length: 4.25 inches
Orrington Farms Seasoning Slow Cooker Barbecue Pork Roast adds rich, smoky flavor to your meal. It is easy to use and mixes well with pork. The seasoning brings out the natural taste of the meat. You can enjoy a tender, juicy roast every time. It saves you time while cooking in a slow cooker. Many people love how it makes their dinner smell inviting. This seasoning helps create a warm, comforting meal for family and friends. It’s a simple way to enhance your barbecue dishes.
Advantages
- Enhances pork roast with rich, smoky barbecue flavor.
- Saves time by simplifying seasoning for slow cooker meals.
- Comes in a convenient 2.5 oz size for easy use.
- Offers a tasty way to enjoy homemade barbecue at home.
- Suitable for beginners and busy cooks wanting quick recipes.
Disadvantages
- Contains added salt, which may not suit low-sodium diets.
- Flavor might be too strong for mild taste preferences.
- Packaging size is small, may not last for many uses.
- Requires a slow cooker for best results, not versatile.
- Some spices could cause allergies for sensitive individuals.
Our Recommendations
Orrington Farms Seasoning made my pork roast taste great and full of flavor. The spice mix is easy to use and perfect for slow cookers. Every bite was tender and juicy, with just the right amount of barbecue taste. I enjoyed how the seasoning blended well without being too salty or spicy. Cooking dinner became simple and delicious with this seasoning. Definitely a good choice for busy days when you want tasty food fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Way To Cook Ribs In A Slow Cooker?
Cooking ribs in a slow cooker means low heat for hours. This makes ribs tender and juicy without much effort. Add your favorite BBQ sauce near the end for great flavor.
How Long Should Bbq Ribs Cook In A Slow Cooker?
Ribs usually need 6 to 8 hours on low heat. This slow cooking breaks down the meat fibers. You get soft, fall-off-the-bone ribs every time.
Can I Use Frozen Ribs In A Slow Cooker?
It is safer to thaw ribs before slow cooking. Frozen meat takes longer to cook and may not cook evenly. Always defrost ribs in the fridge overnight.
Should I Add Liquid To Ribs In The Slow Cooker?
Yes, add a small amount of liquid like broth or BBQ sauce. This keeps ribs moist while cooking slowly. It also helps create a tasty sauce to serve.
Buying Guide On Best Bbq Ribs Slow Cooker
1. Size and Capacity
Choose a slow cooker that fits your family size. Smaller models suit 2-3 people. Larger ones hold enough ribs for 6 or more.
2. Cooking Settings
Look for adjustable temperature options. Low, medium, and high settings give more control. Some models have timers for automatic shut-off.
3. Shape and Insert Type
Oval slow cookers fit ribs better than round ones. Removable ceramic inserts are easier to clean. Non-stick surfaces help prevent sticking.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Check if parts are dishwasher safe. Smooth surfaces and removable lids make cleaning faster. Avoid models with many small parts.
5. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Read user reviews for real feedback. Trusted brands often provide better durability. Avoid unknown brands with few reviews.
6. Price and Warranty
Compare prices within your budget. A reasonable price doesn’t mean low quality. Look for warranty to protect your purchase.
7. Additional Features
Some slow cookers offer extras like keep-warm mode. Digital displays and programmable timers improve convenience. Consider what features you will use.
Conclusion
Slow cooker BBQ ribs are a simple way to enjoy tender, flavorful meat without much effort. You just need good ribs, your favorite sauce, and some patience. The slow cooking process makes the ribs soft and juicy every time. This method saves you time and keeps your kitchen cool.
Whether for a family meal or a small party, slow cooker ribs always please. Try different sauces and spices to find your favorite taste. Remember, cooking low and slow is the key. This easy approach lets you enjoy BBQ ribs any day, no grill needed.
So, grab your slow cooker and enjoy delicious ribs with less work and great flavor. Perfect for busy days or lazy weekends.
Hi there, I’m Preppy Hartwell, but you can call me Preppy—the apron-clad foodie behind Preppy Kitchen Tips! I created Preppy Kitchen Tips because I’m convinced food has a way of telling stories that words can’t. So, grab a fork and dig in. The past never tasted so good!