Finger-Licking Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs Recipe

Succulent slow cooker root beer bbq pork ribs promise a mouthwatering journey into comfort food heaven.

Soft, tender meat falls apart with minimal effort.

Sweet carbonation works magic on protein, tenderizing each delectable bite.

Root beer’s caramel notes blend seamlessly with smoky barbecue seasonings.

Weeknight dinners transform into memorable culinary experiences with this effortless method.

Minimal prep means maximum flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

Savor every juicy, saucy morsel and watch everyone ask for seconds.

Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs That Sizzle

• Simplify Cooking Process: Transform tough pork ribs into melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness with minimal kitchen skills using a slow cooker and basic ingredients.
• Burst of Unique Flavor: Elevate traditional BBQ with root beer's sweet and complex notes, creating a mouthwatering sauce that adds unexpected depth to classic pork ribs.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Perfect for family gatherings, game day parties, or weekend cookouts, these ribs guarantee smiles and satisfied hunger with their tender, saucy goodness.
• Flexible Meal Preparation: Adaptable cooking method allows for high or low temperature settings, making it convenient for busy home cooks with varying schedules and time constraints.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs

• Pork Ribs: Tender meat that forms the base of this delicious slow-cooked dish.

• Salt, Oregano, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper, Chili Powder, Paprika: A robust mixture that adds depth and warmth to the meat's flavor profile.

• Root Beer: Provides a sweet and unique cooking liquid that tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle caramel-like flavor.
• Olive Oil: Helps create a smooth base for the sauce and prevents sticking during cooking.

• Onions: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth to both the cooking liquid and BBQ sauce.
• Garlic: Brings a rich, savory undertone to the overall flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: Provides a classic tangy and sweet coating for the ribs.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a bright, acidic balance to the sauce.
• Brown Sugar: Contributes a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• Chipotle: Introduces a smoky and spicy element to the sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami and depth of the overall flavor.

• Aluminum Foil: Used for easy cleanup and even broiling.

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs

Step 1: Prepare Rib Seasoning

• Salt
• Oregano
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Chili powder
• Paprika

Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs to allow better seasoning absorption.

Massage the spice mixture thoroughly onto the meaty side of the ribs, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 2: Set Up Slow Cooker Base

Create a flavorful foundation in the slow cooker by layering sliced onions and pouring root beer.

Carefully place the seasoned ribs on top of the onions, trimming if needed to fit comfortably. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours until the meat becomes incredibly tender.

Step 3: Craft Homemade BBQ Sauce

• Chopped onions
• Minced garlic

In olive oil until onions become soft and translucent.

• BBQ sauce
• Apple cider vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Minced chipotle
• Worcestershire sauce

Season with salt and black pepper.

Simmer until the sauce thickens and develops deep flavors.

Step 4: Transform Sauce Texture

Allow the sauce to cool slightly.

Use a blender or immersion blender to create a smooth, velvety consistency. If not using immediately, store in the refrigerator for later use.

Step 5: Create Caramelized Finish

Preheat the broiler and position the rack 4-6 inches from the heat source. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Gently transfer ribs from the slow cooker to the sheet. Brush generously with the homemade BBQ sauce.

Broil for 2-3 minutes until the sauce bubbles and caramelizes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 6: Plate and Enjoy

Serve the ribs piping hot, accompanied by extra BBQ sauce for those who love an extra flavor punch.

The meat should be so tender it practically falls off the bone.

Pro Tips for Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs

• Remove the membrane from ribs to ensure better seasoning absorption and tenderness, enhancing overall flavor profile.
• Blend the BBQ sauce until smooth for a silky, restaurant-quality texture that coats the ribs evenly and looks professionally prepared.
• Broil the ribs briefly after slow cooking to create a caramelized, slightly crispy exterior that adds depth and complexity to the meat.
• Store leftover BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, perfect for future meals or as a versatile condiment.
• Choose a high-quality root beer for more robust flavor, as the brand can significantly impact the sauce's overall taste and richness.

Variations to Refresh Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs

• Low-Sodium Lean Ribs: Replace salt with herbs like rosemary and thyme, use low-sodium BBQ sauce, and opt for pork tenderloin for a healthier protein option with reduced fat content.
• Gluten-Free Root Beer Feast: Select gluten-free root beer, verify BBQ sauce ingredients for gluten-free certification, and use tamari instead of Worcestershire sauce to maintain dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Bourbon BBQ Variation: Substitute root beer with bourbon for deeper flavor, add extra chipotle peppers for increased heat, and incorporate smoked paprika to enhance the robust taste profile.
• Vegetarian Jackfruit Alternative: Replace pork ribs with young jackfruit, maintain identical seasoning method, slow cook with root beer, and prepare the same BBQ sauce for a plant-based version that mimics pulled meat texture.

Pairing Suggestions with Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs

• Choose a hoppy IPA or amber ale to cut through the rich, sweet BBQ sauce and complement the root beer's caramelized notes.
• Select a bold Zinfandel or Syrah with robust fruit flavors that can stand up to the smoky, spicy pork ribs and balance the sweet-tangy sauce.
• Prepare creamy coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing or grilled corn with chili lime butter to provide refreshing contrast and cool down the ribs' spicy undertones.
• Serve ice-cold root beer as a nostalgic nod to the recipe's core ingredient, enhancing the meal's playful barbecue spirit.

Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs

• Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Separate meat from bones and cover completely to prevent drying out.
• Wrap ribs tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Place ribs on microwave-safe plate, sprinkle few tablespoons of water or extra BBQ sauce. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking moisture and temperature.

FAQs

• Why use root beer in this recipe?

Root beer acts as a tenderizing agent for the meat and adds a subtle sweet, complex flavor to both the cooking liquid and BBQ sauce. The carbonation helps break down the meat’s proteins, resulting in more tender ribs.

• Can I substitute the root beer with another liquid?

While root beer provides a unique flavor profile, you can substitute it with cola or Dr. Pepper. However, the distinctive taste might slightly change, and the tenderizing effect may differ.

• Do I need to remove the membrane from the ribs?

Yes, removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is crucial. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more effectively and ensures a more tender, flavorful result. Your butcher can help remove it if you’re unsure how.

Slow Cooker Root Beer Bbq Pork Ribs Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Succulent slow cooker root beer bbq pork ribs meld sweet and tangy flavors for a mouthwatering meal. Hearty ribs simmered in root beer sauce offer a comforting dinner that satisfies deep hunger.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (trimmed)
• 1 large onion (yellow or white, sliced)
• 3 tbsps of coarse kosher salt
• 1 tbsp of chili powder
• 1 tbsp of paprika
• 1 tbsp of dried oregano
• 1 tbsp of garlic powder
• 1 tbsp of black pepper
• 1/2 cup of root beer
• 1 1/2 cups of onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp of olive oil
• 1 tbsp of fresh garlic (minced)
• 1 cup of root beer
• 1 1/2 cups of BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 tbsp of minced chipotle in adobo sauce (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare a robust spice blend by mixing salt, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, chili powder, and paprika. Remove the membrane from the ribs’ back surface to enhance seasoning absorption. Massage the spice mixture thoroughly across the meat’s surface.

1. Create a flavorful base in the slow cooker by layering sliced onions and pouring root beer. Arrange the seasoned ribs atop the onions, trimming as needed to fit comfortably. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours until meat becomes exceptionally tender.

1. Craft the BBQ sauce by sautéing chopped onions and minced garlic in olive oil until translucent, approximately 7-8 minutes. Introduce root beer and reduce by half. Incorporate BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chipotle, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and develop deep flavors.

1. Transform the sauce into a smooth consistency using a blender or immersion blender. Puree until completely uniform and silky.

1. Activate the oven’s broiler, positioning the rack 4-6 inches from the heat source. Transfer ribs carefully to a foil-lined baking sheet. Generously brush with prepared BBQ sauce. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and bubbles, watching attentively to prevent burning.

1. Present the ribs immediately, offering additional BBQ sauce alongside for guests to customize their dining experience.

Notes

• Always remove the tough back membrane before seasoning to ensure deeper flavor penetration and more tender meat.
• Experiment with different spice combinations like smoked paprika or adding a touch of cayenne for extra heat without overwhelming the root beer’s sweetness.
• If the BBQ sauce appears too thin, continue simmering or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve desired thickness without compromising rich flavor.
• Prepare the BBQ sauce and spice rub a day in advance to enhance flavor development and streamline cooking process.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours (on Low) or 3 hours (on High)
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 484 kcal
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 1025 mg
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 21 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 125 mg