Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mouthwatering Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Ribs! Imagine tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs infused with a sweet and tangy Dr Pepper sauce that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor journey that combines the classic American barbecue tradition with a surprising twist of everyone's favorite carbonated beverage.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork ribs
- 1 can Dr Pepper
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork ribs. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn't already been done. This helps the flavors penetrate better and ensures a more tender result.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick better.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a dry rub.
- Rub the dry mixture evenly over both sides of the pork ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the Dr Pepper and barbecue sauce until well combined.
- Place the seasoned ribs into the slow cooker. You can either lay them flat or cut them into sections to fit better.
- Pour the Dr Pepper and barbecue sauce mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are well covered. If needed, use a spoon to ensure the sauce seeps into the ribs.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.
- After 6 hours, check the ribs for tenderness. They should be easily pulled apart with a fork. If they are not tender enough, you can continue cooking for an additional hour.
- Once the ribs are done, carefully remove them from the slow cooker using tongs and place them on a serving platter.
- If desired, you can brush additional barbecue sauce over the ribs for extra flavor before serving.
- Serve the ribs hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Ribs!
Tips
- Choose the right ribs: Opt for baby back or spare ribs with good marbling for maximum tenderness.
- Remove the membrane: Always take off the back membrane to ensure better seasoning absorption and more tender meat.
- Pat ribs dry before seasoning: This helps the dry rub stick better and creates a more flavorful crust.
- Layer flavors: Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste, but keep the Dr Pepper sauce as the star.
- Low and slow is the key: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Six hours of slow cooking ensures maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Optional finishing touch: For a caramelized exterior, you can briefly broil the ribs for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking.
- Save some sauce: Reserve a little extra barbecue sauce for serving, allowing guests to add more if they desire.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
