Slow Cooker Country Style Boneless Pork Ribs
Slow cooker country style boneless pork ribs cook low and slow in BBQ sauce for tender, saucy pork with easy prep and big flavor.
You may also love my slow cooker pulled pork sandwiches, and if you want another hands-off dinner, try my slow cooker shredded beef.
Slow cooker country style ribs are my go-to when I want ribs that turn out tender and saucy without hanging out at the stove all evening.
I season them with a sweet-smoky dry rub, layer them over onions, add a little cola and liquid smoke, and let the slow cooker do the rest.
These ribs cook up tender enough to shred, not sliced like a rack of ribs.
Quick checklist for the best ribs
- Choose ribs with a little marbling so they stay juicy.
- Keep the onions on the bottom because they add flavor and act like a “rack.”
- Cook the ribs on LOW, and go by tenderness instead of watching the clock.
How to make slow cooker country style ribs
Mix the dry rub and coat the ribs well on all sides. Add the onions to the slow cooker, then pour in the cola and liquid smoke.
Add a layer of ribs and pour on half the BBQ sauce. Add the remaining ribs and finish with the rest of the sauce.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, until the ribs are fork-tender and easy to pull apart. Serve with extra BBQ sauce if you want.
Optional finish for sticky ribs
If you want a sticky BBQ coating, move the ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet and brush them with a little extra sauce. Broil them for 3 to 5 minutes, and keep a close eye on them so the sauce does not burn.
Kim’s shortcut
If you do not feel like mixing a full dry rub, you can use a store-bought BBQ rub you already like. It works best when you choose a sweet-smoky blend so it matches the sauce.
Troubleshooting
- If the ribs are still tough, keep cooking them on LOW because thickness varies and some ribs just need more time to cook.
- If the sauce is thinner than you want, you can take the lid off for the last 20 to 30 minutes on HIGH, or you can simmer some sauce on the stove to thicken it.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 to 5 days. Save a little cooking juice with the ribs so they stay moist.
Reheat the ribs over low heat on the stovetop with a bit of sauce or juices, or microwave them on half power until hot.
Are country style ribs the same as short ribs or baby back ribs?
No, they are not the same. Country-style ribs are usually cut from the pork shoulder area, not the rib rack, and they eat more like tender pulled pork than “rib bones.”
Do I need to add broth or water to the slow cooker?
No, you usually do not need to add broth or water. The ribs release juices as they cook, and a small amount of cola is usually enough.
Can I cook these on HIGH to make them faster?
Yes, you can cook them on HIGH, but LOW gives a better texture most of the time.
Can I use bone-in country style ribs?
Yes, you can use bone-in ribs. Plan for a longer cook time, and judge doneness by how easily the meat pulls away from the bone.
How do I know they’re done?
They are done when a fork slides in easily and the meat pulls apart without a fight.
What to serve with them
These ribs pair well with mashed potatoes, baked beans, mac and cheese, or cornbread.
More Easy Slow Cooker Recipes
Ingredients
For the Dry Rub:
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
For the Boneless Ribs:
- 5 to 6 pounds country style pork ribs
- 1 large onion, cut into large pieces
- 12 ounces cola, (We used 1 can of Dr. Pepper.)
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce, plus more for serving if desired
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the dark brown sugar, salt, paprika, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, cinnamon, and chili powder.¼ cup dark brown sugar2 teaspoons salt2 teaspoons smoked paprika1 teaspoon black pepper1 teaspoon garlic powder1 teaspoon onion powder1 teaspoon ground mustard¼ teaspoon cinnamon¼ teaspoon chili powder
- Rub some of the seasoning mix onto each pork rib.5 to 6 pounds country style pork ribs
- Place the onion in the bottom of a large slow cooker. Then, pour in the soda and liquid smoke.1 large onion12 ounces cola2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- Place a layer of boneless pork ribs over the onions. Pour half the barbecue sauce over the ribs. Repeat with the remaining ribs and barbecue sauce.1 ½ cups barbecue sauce
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. The ribs will be fork tender and easily shred when finished cooking.
- Remove from the crockpot and serve with extra barbecue sauce and your favorite sides.
- Scroll up and see the post for tips, FAQs, and storage options.
Notes
Nutrition
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We’d Love If You’d Rate It Leave a Review!Meet Kimberly
Hi, I’m Kimberly Vargo! Comfort food is at the heart of everything I make like easy dinners and sides to desserts, cocktails, and condiments. A lot of my inspiration comes from old family recipes, personal favorites, and vintage cookbooks.
