Simple, tender slow cooker country style ribs are perfect for an easy dinner that will please everyone at the table. This recipe combines the rich flavors of spices and BBQ sauce to create a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for family gatherings, casual weeknight meals, or even game day, these ribs stand out with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and mouthwatering taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – Just season and let your slow cooker do the work while you attend to other tasks.
- Rich Flavor – The blend of spices and BBQ sauce creates a depth of flavor that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Dish – Serve these ribs with sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly – Kids love the sweet tanginess of BBQ sauce, making it a hit for all ages.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Make ahead and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before starting your slow cooker country style ribs.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Non-stick Cooking Spray
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker – The heart of this recipe; it ensures even cooking and tenderizing of the meat.
- Mixing Bowl – A vital tool for combining spices efficiently before applying them to the ribs.
- Measuring Spoons – Accuracy in measuring ingredients guarantees consistent flavor every time.
Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 3 pounds country style ribs
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 tablespoon paprika
- 3/4 tablespoon garlic powder
- 3/4 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
How to Make Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine salt, ground black pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar. Stir until well mixed.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the country style ribs directly into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Season the Ribs
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the ribs evenly.
- Use your hands to rub the spices into the meat thoroughly for maximum flavor absorption.
Step 4: Add BBQ Sauce
- Pour BBQ sauce over all of the seasoned ribs.
- Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set to cook on high for 4-6 hours or on low for 8 hours until tender.
By following these steps, you will create succulent slow cooker country style ribs that are sure to satisfy! Enjoy this delicious main course that embodies comfort food at its finest.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or having a family dinner, here are some delicious serving suggestions.
On a Bun
- BBQ Sliders: Serve the ribs on small buns with extra BBQ sauce for a tasty slider.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Shred the ribs and serve with coleslaw on a soft roll for a classic pulled pork experience.
With Sides
- Cornbread: The sweet and savory flavors of cornbread complement the ribs perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances the richness of the ribs.
As Part of a Platter
- Meat and Cheese Board: Slice the ribs and include them on a platter with assorted cheeses and crackers.
- BBQ Feast: Pair the ribs with other grilled meats, baked beans, and potato salad for an all-out BBQ spread.
With Vegetables
- Grilled Corn: Charred corn on the cob adds sweetness that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrition to your meal.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
To achieve tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs, keep these tips in mind.
- Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh country style ribs for better flavor and tenderness.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the spice rub; it enhances the taste significantly.
- Use Enough Sauce: Make sure to cover the ribs well in BBQ sauce to prevent dryness during cooking.
- Cook Low & Slow: Cooking on low heat for longer ensures tenderness. If short on time, high heat works too, just monitor closely.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the meat to rest after cooking helps retain juices when you cut into it.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try different BBQ sauces or add some hot sauce for a kick!
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Pairing your Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky, baked beans complement rib dishes wonderfully.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad balances out the rich flavors of the meat.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Comforting mac & cheese is always a hit alongside BBQ favorites.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus adds color and freshness to your plate.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: This Southern classic provides a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with tender ribs.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These add a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with BBQ flavors.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing makes for a refreshing side option.
- Corn on the Cob: This classic summer side is sweet, crunchy, and perfect with any BBQ dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result.
- Using too much spice: Over-seasoning can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced flavor.
- Skipping the rub: Not rubbing the spices into the meat means missing out on intense flavor. Take a few minutes to ensure an even coating.
- Opening the lid too often: Each time you lift the lid, heat escapes. Keep it closed for consistent cooking and better results.
- Not using enough BBQ sauce: Insufficient sauce can lead to dry ribs. Be generous with it to keep your ribs moist and flavorful.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or too short can affect tenderness. Follow the recommended cooking times for perfect ribs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Country style ribs will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
- Place cooled ribs in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute increments until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of BBQ sauce if needed, until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
You can substitute other cuts of pork or even chicken, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I know when my slow cooker country style ribs are done?
Ribs are done when they reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) and are tender enough to pull apart easily.
What can I serve with slow cooker country style ribs?
They pair wonderfully with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete meal.
Are slow cooker country style ribs healthy?
While they are rich in protein, be mindful of portion sizes due to higher fat content from BBQ sauce and pork.
Final Thoughts
These Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The recipe is versatile; feel free to customize your spice rub or BBQ sauce according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting meal after a long day, these tender ribs will surely impress!
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Indulge in the savory delight of Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a tender and flavorful masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to game day gatherings. With a blend of spices and your favorite BBQ sauce, these ribs become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they cook low and slow in the slow cooker. Effortlessly prepare this hearty comfort food with minimal fuss, allowing you to enjoy precious time with loved ones while savoring every bite. Ideal for meal prep or casual entertaining, these ribs are sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 pounds country style ribs
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 tablespoon paprika
- 3/4 tablespoon garlic powder
- 3/4 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine salt, ground black pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar. Mix well.
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Place the country style ribs inside.
- Evenly sprinkle the spice mixture over the ribs and rub it into the meat for better flavor.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the seasoned ribs. Cover and cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 8 hours until tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 ounces (142g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
