Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These ribs are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy days. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work. The low-and-slow cooking method turns these meaty ribs into a fork-tender, flavorful dinner. You can use your favorite BBQ sauce or create a custom blend to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless or bone-in country style pork ribs
• Barbecue sauce (your favorite store-bought or homemade)
• Onion (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
• Brown sugar or honey
• Salt and pepper
• Smoked paprika or chili powder (optional for extra flavor)

Directions

1. Season the ribs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika or chili powder if using.
2. Place sliced onions and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Arrange the ribs on top of the onions.
4. In a small bowl, mix barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar (or Worcestershire), and brown sugar. Pour over the ribs, coating them well.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
6. Optional: For caramelized edges, transfer cooked ribs to a baking sheet, brush with extra BBQ sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes until slightly charred.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 7–8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high
Total time: up to 8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or spicy BBQ sauce.
• Sweet and smoky: Mix in maple syrup or molasses for deeper sweetness.
• Tangy twist: Add a splash of mustard or more vinegar for zing.
• Asian-style: Use hoisin, soy sauce, and ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Use beef ribs: The same method works for boneless beef ribs with slight cook time adjustments.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F for about 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
These ribs also freeze well. Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What are country style ribs?

They’re a meaty cut from the pork shoulder or blade end of the loin — not traditional ribs, but very flavorful and perfect for slow cooking.

Can I use bone-in ribs for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in country style ribs work just as well and add extra flavor.

Do I need to sear the ribs first?

Searing adds flavor but isn’t required — they’ll still be delicious straight in the slow cooker.

Can I use a homemade BBQ sauce?

Absolutely. Homemade sauces work great and let you control the flavor and sweetness.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers can be added for a complete one-pot meal.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

They should be tender enough to cut with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 190–200°F for maximum tenderness.

Should I trim the fat from the ribs?

Some fat helps keep the ribs moist, but you can trim excess fat if preferred.

Can I cook these on the stovetop or oven?

Yes, bake in a covered dish at 300°F for 2.5 to 3 hours, or simmer gently on the stovetop.

What should I serve with country style ribs?

Mashed potatoes, cornbread, baked beans, coleslaw, or mac and cheese are all great sides.

Can I cook these overnight?

Yes, set your slow cooker to low before bed and wake up to tender ribs. Reheat before serving if needed.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs are the ultimate comfort food — tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and your slow cooker, you can create a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, no-fuss meals.

Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs

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Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs are tender, juicy pork ribs slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful BBQ sauce. With minimal prep, this easy dish delivers comforting, fall-apart meat perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 3–4 lbs boneless or bone-in country style pork ribs
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 1 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Season ribs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika or chili powder if using.
2. Place sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Arrange seasoned ribs on top of the onions.
4. In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, vinegar or Worcestershire, and brown sugar. Pour over the ribs, coating evenly.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until ribs are fork-tender.
6. Optional: Transfer ribs to a baking sheet, brush with additional BBQ sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes until caramelized.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.

Notes

• No searing required, but it can enhance flavor.
• Bone-in ribs add extra richness if preferred.
• Add chopped carrots or potatoes for a one-pot meal.
• For a spicy kick, use a spicy BBQ sauce or add hot sauce.
• Great for freezing—cool completely before storing in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (1/6 of recipe)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 760mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 110mg