Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs Recipe
This recipe is incredibly easy and requires minimal prep work. The slow cooker does most of the cooking, resulting in flavorful and fall-apart tender ribs every time. You can enjoy them plain or finish them with barbecue sauce for extra smoky sweetness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 pounds country style ribs
1–2 tablespoons rib rub
Optional: barbecue sauce
Directions
Place the country style ribs on a large plate or tray. Generously coat all sides of the ribs with the rib rub. Let the ribs rest for 15 to 20 minutes so the seasoning can absorb into the meat.
Transfer the seasoned ribs to the bottom of a slow cooker or crockpot. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the ribs are tender and fully cooked.
You can serve the ribs directly from the slow cooker if preferred.
For barbecue-style ribs, preheat the oven to broil on high. Transfer the cooked ribs to a sheet pan. Brush your favorite barbecue sauce generously over the ribs.
Place the sheet pan under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Once the sauce becomes bubbly and slightly caramelized, remove the ribs from the oven.
Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours 45 minutes
Total time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Use a spicy rib rub for extra heat and bold flavor.
Try different barbecue sauces such as honey barbecue, smoky chipotle, mustard-based, or sweet and spicy varieties.
Add sliced onions or garlic cloves to the slow cooker for additional flavor.
For a smoky taste without grilling, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the slow cooker.
Serve the ribs shredded on sandwiches or sliders for a different presentation.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked ribs for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions in short intervals.
If reheating sauced ribs, cover them loosely with foil to keep them from drying out.
FAQs
What are country style ribs?
Country style ribs are meaty cuts usually taken from the pork shoulder area rather than actual rib sections.
Can I cook these on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook them on high for about 2½ to 3½ hours, though cooking on low gives the best texture.
Do I need to add liquid to the slow cooker?
No, the ribs release enough natural juices while cooking.
Can I use beef country style ribs?
Yes, beef country style ribs also work well, though cooking times may vary slightly.
What barbecue sauce works best?
Any barbecue sauce you enjoy will work, from smoky and sweet to spicy or tangy.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the ribs ahead and broil them with sauce just before serving.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs should be tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
Can I cook frozen ribs in the slow cooker?
It is safer to thaw the ribs completely before slow cooking to ensure even cooking.
What sides go well with these ribs?
Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, mac and cheese, and roasted vegetables pair well.
Can I skip the broiling step?
Yes, the ribs are delicious straight from the slow cooker, but broiling adds extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs are an easy and satisfying meal with tender meat and rich flavor. Whether served plain or coated in sticky barbecue sauce, these ribs are comforting, hearty, and perfect for any occasion.
