Looking for an easy, no-fuss dinner that delivers big on flavor? This Crockpot Country-Style Boneless Pork Ribs recipe is exactly what you need. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a melt-in-your-mouth, fall-apart pork rib dish that will have your family asking for seconds. The combination of BBQ sauce, Dr Pepper, and a few simple seasonings creates a savory-sweet sauce that infuses the pork, resulting in a tender, juicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Crockpot Country-Style Boneless Pork Ribs
To make these delicious, tender ribs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 packs of country-style boneless pork ribs – These are perfect for the crockpot because they’re cut into manageable portions and become incredibly tender during the slow cooking process.
- 1 18 oz bottle of Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce – This tangy, sweet BBQ sauce is the perfect complement to the pork ribs. You can always adjust the amount depending on how saucy you like your ribs.
- 1 onion – Diced to add a savory, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- 1 20 oz bottle of Dr Pepper – The secret ingredient that adds a unique sweetness and complexity to the sauce. The carbonation helps tenderize the pork while infusing it with rich flavors.
- Garlic powder – For a savory punch that enhances the overall flavor.
- Black pepper – To season the ribs and balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and Dr Pepper.
How to Make Crockpot Country-Style Boneless Pork Ribs
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Start by placing the country-style boneless pork ribs directly into the slow cooker. No need for any browning or pre-cooking; simply add the ribs to the pot.
Step 2: Add the Onion and Seasonings
Next, dice the onion and add it to the slow cooker. The onion will cook down and soften, blending into the sauce to create a rich, savory base for the ribs. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and black pepper to season the pork. These simple spices help bring out the natural flavors of the meat while complementing the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Step 3: Add the BBQ Sauce and Dr Pepper
Pour the entire bottle of Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly. Drizzle the Dr Pepper into the crockpot as well. The soda adds a unique sweetness that perfectly balances the tang of the BBQ sauce. The carbonation in the Dr Pepper helps tenderize the pork as it cooks, making the ribs incredibly soft and juicy.
Step 4: Cook on High for 6 Hours
Set your slow cooker to cook on high for 6 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the pork to become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce. You’ll know the ribs are ready when they easily shred apart with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pork ribs are done cooking, use tongs or a fork to shred the meat. The ribs should be so tender that they practically fall apart. Serve the fall-apart pork with your favorite sides, such as corn on the cob and mashed baby red potatoes. These sides complement the rich, flavorful ribs and make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
This crockpot pork ribs recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner with family and friends. It requires minimal prep time and allows the slow cooker to do most of the work, making it a stress-free option for anyone. The combination of BBQ sauce, Dr Pepper, and seasonings creates a unique flavor profile that is sweet, savory, and deeply satisfying.
The pork becomes incredibly tender after slow cooking, practically melting in your mouth with each bite. The Dr Pepper adds a depth of flavor that is both unexpected and delicious, and the Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce provides the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Variations for the Best Ribs
While this recipe is already easy and foolproof, here are a few tips and variations to elevate your dish:
- Adjust the BBQ Sauce: If you prefer a spicier kick, you can use a spicy BBQ sauce or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the recipe. For a sweeter flavor, consider using a honey-based BBQ sauce.
- Add More Vegetables: If you want to add some extra veggies to the dish, consider adding carrots or bell peppers. These will cook down in the slow cooker and absorb the delicious sauce.
- Use Diet Dr Pepper: If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can swap the regular Dr Pepper for Diet Dr Pepper. It still provides the necessary sweetness without the extra sugar.
- Serve with Rice: If you want to add another side, consider serving these ribs with white rice or baked potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.
What to Pair with Crockpot Pork Ribs
While these pork ribs are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary sides will take the meal to the next level. Here are a few ideas:
- Corn on the Cob: The sweet, juicy corn contrasts beautifully with the smoky, tangy pork. You can grill the corn or cook it in the microwave for convenience.
- Mashed Baby Red Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes is the perfect match for the tender ribs. You can top the potatoes with a bit of butter and chives for extra flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw is an excellent side to cut through the richness of the pork and add a refreshing crunch to your meal.
- Garlic Bread or Texas Toast: A warm slice of garlic bread or Texas toast pairs perfectly with the sauce, allowing you to mop up every last bit of deliciousness from the crockpot.
Why Crockpot Cooking is So Convenient
Using a slow cooker for this recipe offers several benefits:
- Set and Forget: Once you’ve added the ingredients to the crockpot, you don’t have to worry about it. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
- Tender Meat: Slow cooking allows the pork to become fall-apart tender, absorbing the flavors of the sauce and seasonings over hours of gentle cooking.
- Perfect for Busy Schedules: Whether you’re working, running errands, or spending time with family, this recipe is perfect for days when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. It’s great for meal prepping as well!
Final Thoughts on Crockpot Country-Style Boneless Pork Ribs
This Crockpot Country-Style Boneless Pork Ribs recipe is the perfect solution for a busy dinner night or when you want a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort. The combination of sweet BBQ sauce, Dr Pepper, and tender pork results in a dish that is flavorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will love.
Enjoy the convenience, the tenderness, and the flavor of this crockpot favorite!