Finger-Licking 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef Ribs
There’s something deeply comforting about a pot of slow cooker beef ribs gently simmering all day the kind of meal that fills the house with rich, savory aromas and brings everyone to the table early. This 3-ingredient beef rib recipe is made for busy days when you want bold, hearty flavor without firing up a grill or smoker.
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Beef Ribs
Only 3 simple ingredients
Fall-apart tender beef ribs every time
No grill or smoker required
Hands-off slow cooker recipe
Budget-friendly, filling comfort food
Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings
3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef Ribs
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
2½–3 pounds beef ribs (short ribs or beef back ribs)
1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
1 packet (about 1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
Directions:
Pat the beef ribs dry with paper towels. If there is excess surface fat, trim lightly, leaving enough for flavor and moisture.
Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over all sides of the ribs, pressing gently so it adheres.
Arrange the seasoned beef ribs in the slow cooker, stacking if necessary with the meaty side facing outward.
Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, coating them as evenly as possible. The sauce will thin slightly as it cooks and soak into the meat.
Cover and cook on LOW for 7–9 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is very tender and pulls apart easily with a fork.
For sticky, caramelized edges, transfer the cooked ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with extra barbecue sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely.
Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon extra sauce from the slow cooker over the top.
Variations & Tips:
Use smoky or hickory-style barbecue sauce for deep, bold flavor
Add ¼ cup cola or beef broth for extra tenderness
Stir chili powder or crushed red pepper into the sauce for heat
These ribs reheat beautifully, perfect for leftovers or make-ahead meals
