Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
These Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs are coated with a smoky spice rub and simmered low and slow in a savory BBQ sauce until fork-tender. A quick finish under the broiler gives them an irresistibly sticky, caramelized exterior.
Servings: 8
Calories: 388kcal
Ingredients
- 3½ to 4 pounds boneless country style pork ribs
- 1 large yellow onion cut into 6 chunks
- 2 cups BBQ sauce divided
- ¼ cup less sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup water
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke optional but highly recommended
Smoky Pork Spice Rub
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
Instructions
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and if large, cut down into serving size pieces (5- to 6-inch pieces). Combine the seasoning mix in a small bowl and sprinkle it over the ribs, coating all sides.
- Add 1 cup BBQ sauce, soy sauce, water, and liquid smoke to a small bowl and stir to combine. Set aside.
Slow Cooker Instructions
- Place the onion chunks on the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker and place the seasoned ribs on top. Pour the sauce over the top, coating the tops of the ribs.
- Cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until very tender but not falling apart.
- Use tongs to transfer the ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush them generously with the remaining BBQ sauce, creating a nice, thick layer. Broil, watching closely, until the sauce is sticky and caramelized. There’s no need to flip the ribs.
Instant Pot Instructions
- Place the onion chunks on the bottom of the Instant Pot insert and place the seasoned ribs on top. Pour the sauce over the top, coating the tops of the ribs.
- Cook on HIGH pressure for 35 minutes. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release for 10 minutes and then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Finish the ribs under the broiler as detailed in the last step of the Slow Cooker instructions.
Notes
Bone-in country style ribs can also be used, although they may require a little additional cooking time.
Total time listed is for the slow cooker method. The total time for the Instant Pot method is approximately 50 to 60 minutes, including the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure.
Freezer Meal Instructions
Cut and season the ribs and prepare the sauce as directed in the recipe. Transfer the uncooked seasoned ribs to a freezer-safe plastic storage bag and pour the sauce over the top. Remove as much air as possible from the bag, seal, and label it. Transfer the bag to the freezer and use within 4 to 5 months for the best quality.
When you are ready to cook the ribs, allow them to thaw safely in your refrigerator overnight and then proceed with the recipe, as directed for either the slow cooker or Instant Pot method.
Nutrition
Calories: 388kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 1376mg | Potassium: 653mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 26g | Vitamin A: 632IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 2mg