Are you craving tender, juicy ribs but don't want to spend hours tending a smoker? Then you're in the right place! This recipe for crock pot rib tips delivers incredible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with minimal effort. It's the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend get-together, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. This recipe is a testament to the power of slow cooking, transforming humble rib tips into a truly delicious dish. Let’s get started on this journey into homemade cooking perfection!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs beef rib tips, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon chili powder for extra heat
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Rib Tips
Pat the rib tips dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better and develop a richer flavor.
Step 2: Building Flavor
In a large bowl, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If using, add the chili powder now. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 3: Marinating the Ribs
Add the rib tips to the bowl and toss them thoroughly to coat them evenly with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in more tender and flavorful rib tips.
Step 4: Slow Cooking Magic
Place the marinated rib tips in your slow cooker. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer if possible, for even cooking. Pour any remaining marinade over the ribs.
Step 5: Crock Pot Cooking Time
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the rib tips are fork-tender and easily pull apart. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of the rib tips. Check for doneness after the minimum time.
Step 6: Serving Time
Once cooked, remove the rib tips from the slow cooker. You can shred them with two forks if desired, or simply serve them as is. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, fall-off-the-bone crock pot rib tips!
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Rib Tips:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Overcrowding can prevent even cooking. If necessary, cook the rib tips in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the cooked rib tips and simmer the remaining liquid in a saucepan on the stovetop until it reduces and thickens.
- Make it a meal: Serve your rib tips with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Rib Tips: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
- Sweet and Savory Rib Tips: Increase the brown sugar to 1/3 cup for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Herb-Infused Rib Tips: Add a tablespoon of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the marinade for a more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients. However, as a general estimate, a serving of crock pot rib tips will be relatively high in protein and fat, but can be part of a healthy diet in moderation.
This easy recipe for crock pot rib tips is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. The slow cooking process yields incredibly tender and flavorful rib tips, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. Enjoy!