Crockpot country style ribs are a delightful addition to any meal, providing tender and juicy bites infused with rich flavors. Using a slow cooker transforms tough cuts of meat into savory, melt-in-your-mouth ribs, making them perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or a special treat for yourself and family. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create this mouthwatering dish.
Why We Love This Crockpot Country Style Ribs Recipe
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a hearty plate of country style ribs. Not only do they deliver incredible taste, but they also allow for convenience and versatility. Cooking them in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other activities. The slow cooking process breaks down the meat, ensuring it is tender and infused with flavors from the seasoning and BBQ sauce. Plus, you can customize the sweetness and spice levels of the sauce to fit your preferences, creating a dish that your taste buds will truly adore.
Ingredients about Crockpot Country Style Ribs
- Country style ribs: about 2-3 pounds
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (more to taste)
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- BBQ sauce: 1-2 cups, your favorite brand
- Onion (optional): 1 medium, sliced
- Garlic powder (optional): 1 teaspoon
How to Make Crockpot Country Style Ribs Directions
Creating these delicious crockpot country style ribs is a simple process that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! Start by preparing the ribs: remove them from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is essential for ensuring that the seasonings adhere well to the meat. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and, if you choose, garlic powder. Take your time to ensure that every surface of the ribs is coated evenly with the spices.
Next, it’s time to load up your crockpot. Place the seasoned ribs flat in the slow cooker. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pot, so each rib has ample space to cook evenly. If you’re using onions, slice them and layer them on top of the ribs. This will add an additional layer of flavor and sweetness to the dish as they cook down.
Now comes the best part — the BBQ sauce! Pour your chosen BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure that all portions are thoroughly coated. The sauce is the star of this recipe, so feel free to be generous. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preferences, whether you like a sweet, tangy, or spicy kick.
Once everything is in place, cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to tenderize perfectly. After the cooking time, check the ribs for tenderness; they should easily pull apart when you give them a gentle tug with a fork.
When the ribs are done, carefully remove them from the crockpot and place them on a serving platter. You can drizzle more BBQ sauce over the top if desired for an extra burst of flavor. Serve them warm, and watch as your guests delight in every bite!
How to Serve Crockpot Country Style Ribs
Serving your crockpot country style ribs can be just as creative as making them. There are countless ways to present this delicious dish that will elevate any meal. One of the simplest ways is to serve them on a platter, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Pair your ribs with classic sides that complement the rich flavors. Consider serving them with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast, or creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the BBQ sauce. Baked beans, corn on the cob, or a simple garden salad also make for excellent side dishes.
For a casual approach, you can serve the ribs right from the crockpot. Set the table with some fresh rolls or tortillas to soak up the delicious sauce. This allows for a relaxed dining experience where guests can help themselves and customize their plates.
Don’t forget drinks! A refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or even soda can complement the sweetness of the BBQ sauce beautifully. If you want something a little heartier, consider serving a light beer that can balance out the flavors of the dish.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Country Style Ribs
To ensure your crockpot country style ribs come out perfect every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Trim Excess Fat: While some fat adds flavor, trimming off excess fat from the ribs can help avoid overly greasy results. This also allows the seasonings to penetrate better.
- Use High-Quality BBQ Sauce: The flavor of the BBQ sauce greatly influences the overall taste of your dish, so choose one that you love or even try mixing a couple to create a unique flavor.
- Add a Touch of Acid: If you enjoy tangy flavors, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to the BBQ sauce. This adds brightness and balances out the sweetness.
- Check in on Cooking Time: Every crockpot cooks differently due to variations in temperature settings. It’s always good to check your ribs during cooking. If they are tender earlier than expected, feel free to turn off the heat.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to personalize the seasoning mix. Experiment with smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a touch of brown sugar for additional depth of flavor.
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the ribs to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite more flavorful.
How to Store Crockpot Country Style Ribs
Storing your leftover crockpot country style ribs is simple. Allow the ribs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. Properly storing your ribs will keep them fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing the leftovers. Wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. When sealed properly, they can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Variation of Crockpot Country Style Ribs
The beauty of crockpot country style ribs is their versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences or pantry staples. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce. This will add a spicy element that pairs well with the sweetness of the sauce.
- Sweet and Tangy: Try blending your BBQ sauce with honey or brown sugar for a sweeter profile. You can even include a splash of mustard for a hint of tanginess.
- Asian-Inspired: Switch up your sauce with an Asian flair by using a teriyaki or hoisin sauce. Add sesame oil, ginger, and garlic for a delicious twist.
- Slow-Cooker Chili Ribs: If you’re in the mood for chili, add canned diced tomatoes, beans, and chili seasoning for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano with the ribs for an earthy flavor profile that complements the barbecue.
FAQ: Crockpot Country Style Ribs
Can I use frozen ribs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ribs, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. It is best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for more even cooking.
What should I serve with crockpot country style ribs?
These ribs pair wonderfully with side dishes like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, baked beans, or a simple salad.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull apart. Cooking times can vary, so be sure to check around the 6-hour mark.
Can I cook these ribs on high heat?
While low heat is recommended for tender results, you can cook on high for about 4 hours if you’re short on time. Just keep an eye on them!
What kind of BBQ sauce is best?
The best BBQ sauce is one that you love! Whether sweet, tangy, or spicy, feel free to experiment with different brands or homemade sauces to find your favorite flavor.
With these easy-to-follow tips and tricks, you are ready to delve into the delicious world of crockpot country style ribs. Enjoy the journey of creating this tasty dish for yourself, friends, and loved ones!
Crockpot Country Style Ribs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2-3 pounds Country style ribs About 2-3 pounds
- 1 teaspoon Salt More to taste
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1-2 cups BBQ sauce Your favorite brand
- 1 medium Onion Optional, sliced
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove the ribs from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Season the ribs generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if using, ensuring even coating.
Cooking
- Place the seasoned ribs flat in the crockpot without overcrowding.
- Layer the sliced onion on top of the ribs if using.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the crockpot and set to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
- Check for tenderness; ribs should easily pull apart with a fork.
Serving
- Remove the ribs from the crockpot and place them on a serving platter.
- Drizzle more BBQ sauce over the ribs if desired and serve warm.
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