can you cook frozen ribs in a slow cooker

A Crock-Pot or slow cooker is a handy kitchen appliance to have. It is super convenient when you need to make an easy dinner, especially if you forget to remove meat from your freezer to thaw. Fortunately, you can prepare a last-minute dinner by placing frozen ribs in the Crock-Pot.

You can cook other foods from frozen in your slow cooker, too. Add some fiber and other nutrients to a pot roast dinner by adding a bag of frozen mixed vegetables. Plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh can also be cooked from frozen.

Yes, you can take meat out of the freezer and put it right into a slow cooker to cook. Frozen meat will thaw and cook in your slow cooker.

If you don’t have time to thaw them ahead of time, you can throw them in the crockpot frozen, just be sure to cook them a little longer–5-7 hours instead of 4-6.

Using a Slow Cooker

While you can make frozen ribs in a slow cooker, you can also use this kitchen appliance to make other types of dishes. You can make pot roasts, soups, stews and even pulled meats. You can make slow cooker country style ribs as well. There are many slow cooker recipes you can try.

Crock-Pot is a leading brand of slow cookers, all of which are easy to use. Simply add your ingredients to the inner pot of the slow cooker. Then secure the lid on top. Adjust the settings according to temperature and time. Directions may vary based on your model and whether your slow cooker is manual or automatic.

Unlike a pressure cooker, which cooks food in minutes using high pressure, a slow cooker can take as much as 12 hours to cook. When making frozen ribs in a slow cooker, remember to account for the additional time it will take to cook all the way through. You may want to use a higher temperature setting to encourage quicker cooking.

Safely Cooking From Frozen

Many people worry that cooking foods from frozen without allowing them time to thaw is unsafe or unhealthy. According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, there are actually many benefits to freezing food prior to cooking, such as maintaining the quality of the food for longer. Frozen food also retains its nutrient content.

The USDA also confirms that meat can be safely cooked directly from frozen, though it will take approximately twice as long to cook as thawed meat. When making slow cooker country style ribs, remember to double the cook time if you are cooking from frozen.

Cooking frozen ribs in the slow cooker rather than letting them thaw may also reduce the risk of bacteria forming. According to Mayo Clinic, leaving food out too long at room temperature causes bacteria to form, which may lead to food-borne illnesses. Always store food at colder temperatures when you are not cooking.

Read more: 4 Reasons to Eat Just a Little Bit Less Meat

Can I cook frozen meat in the Crock-Pot?

FAQ

Do you need to thaw ribs before slow cooking?

Can I put frozen ribs in the crockpot?

Can you cook ribs from frozen?

Why are my ribs not tender in slow cooker?

Can you cook ribs in a slow cooker?

If you prefer the convenience of a slow cooker, follow these steps: Place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker and pour your favorite barbecue sauce over them. Cover the slow cooker and cook the ribs on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. This low and slow method will ensure tender and juicy ribs.

Can you cook frozen baby back ribs in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook frozen baby back ribs in a slow cooker. Place the ribs directly into the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours until they are tender and cooked through. You can add your favorite seasonings and sauces for added flavor. What is the best way to season frozen baby back ribs?

Can crockpot ribs be frozen?

To Freeze: Cooked crockpot ribs may be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before warming. To Reheat. Warm the ribs in a slow cooker on LOW until heated through. You may also warm in a large, covered, saucepan on the stovetop over LOW heat or in the microwave in a covered container until heated through.

How long do you cook ribs in a crock pot?

Put the lid on the slow cooker and cook the ribs on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 8 hours. Whether you cook them on HIGH or on LOW will depend on how long you plan to be away from your crockpot. After the ribs are done cooking, pour and brush some of the BBQ sauce in the bottom of the pot over the ribs before removing them from the slow cooker.