These Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs are the ultimate combination of tender, flavorful, and effortless. The root beer not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with subtle sweetness, while the barbecue sauce creates a sticky, smoky glaze. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or cozy weekend meals.

Ingredients

Serves: 4-6

• 3 pounds pork side ribs (about 2 racks)
• 24 oz root beer (2 cans, 12 oz each)
• 2 cups prepared barbecue sauce (choose your favorite variety, like hickory or mesquite-flavored)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs

1. Place the ribs on a large cutting board, meat side down.
2. Using a butter knife or spoon, slide it under the silver skin (the thin membrane) on the back of the ribs. Once loosened, grip it with a paper towel and peel it off entirely for more tender ribs.
3. Season both sides of the ribs generously with salt and pepper.

2. Slow Cook the Ribs

1. Arrange the seasoned ribs snugly in a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Pour the root beer over the ribs until fully submerged.
3. Cover and cook:
   • Low: 5 hours
   • High: 3 hours

3. Add the BBQ Sauce

1. Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker (they will be tender, so handle gently to avoid them falling apart).
2. Discard the root beer liquid and return the ribs to the slow cooker.
3. Brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce on all sides.
4. Cover and cook on high for 1 hour to allow the sauce to thicken and coat the ribs.

4. Optional: Broil for a Sticky Finish

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
2. Transfer the ribs to a lined baking sheet. Brush with additional barbecue sauce.
3. Broil for 3-5 minutes or until caramelized, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker or oven and transfer to a serving platter.
2. Serve hot with your favorite sides like coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.

Chef’s Notes

• Flavor Tip: For an extra smoky kick, opt for barbecue sauces with hickory, mesquite, or chipotle flavors.
• Leftovers: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, oven, or skillet with a little extra barbecue sauce.
• Variations: For spicier ribs, add 1 tsp of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the salt and pepper rub.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 15g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender & Juicy: The slow cooker method ensures the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender.
• Minimal Effort: A hands-off recipe with big, bold flavors.
• Customizable: Easily tweak the barbecue sauce or add spices to suit your taste.

These Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs will be the star of your dinner table!