Short Description: These Dr Pepper Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, infused with the unique flavor of Dr Pepper, and coated in a tangy, smoky BBQ sauce. This recipe utilizes a slow cooker for maximum tenderness, followed by a quick bake in the oven for a caramelized, sticky finish.
Ingredients:
- 3–4 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 2 cans (12 oz each) Dr Pepper soda, divided
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (smoky and tangy preferred)
- 1 tsp liquid smoke
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Preparation:
Step 1: Place ribs in a slow cooker and pour in 1 can of Dr Pepper.
Step 2: Cover and cook on low for 7 hours or high for 4 hours, until tender and nearly falling apart.
Step 3: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, black pepper, and the remaining can of Dr Pepper. Mix well.
Step 5: Transfer ribs from the slow cooker to the wire rack. Brush generously with sauce.
Step 6: Bake for 15 minutes, flip, glaze again, and bake another 15 minutes until sticky and caramelized.
Step 7: Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
These ribs offer a unique twist on a classic BBQ favorite. The Dr Pepper not only tenderizes the meat but also imparts a subtle sweetness that complements the smoky and tangy BBQ sauce. The slow cooker makes the ribs incredibly tender, while the oven finish creates a beautiful caramelized crust. It’s a relatively hands-off recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The combination of flavors is addictive, making these ribs a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and corn on the cob.
- Pair with baked beans and macaroni and cheese for a hearty meal.
- Offer a side of cornbread or biscuits to soak up the extra sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder to the sauce.
- Drizzle in honey for extra sweetness and stickiness.
- Finish on a hot grill instead of in the oven for smoky, charred edges.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce; a smoky and tangy sauce works best to balance the sweetness of the Dr Pepper.
- If you don’t have a wire rack, you can bake the ribs directly on the foil-lined baking sheet, but the rack helps to crisp up the ribs more evenly.
- Ensure the ribs are fully cooked and tender before transferring them to the oven. If they are still tough after the slow cooker time, continue cooking until tender.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-7 hours (slow cooker) + 30 minutes (oven)
Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes – 7 hours 45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimated, per serving, assuming 4 servings)
Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 700-900
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 800-1200mg
DRINK Rating:
- Pairing: Dr. Pepper, Root Beer, Cola, Sweet Tea
Conclusion:
Dr Pepper Ribs are a delicious and easy way to enjoy tender, flavorful BBQ ribs. The unique combination of Dr Pepper and smoky BBQ sauce creates a memorable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a comforting meal, these ribs are sure to satisfy.
Questions and Answers:
- Q: Can I use a different type of soda?
- A: While Dr Pepper is the star of this recipe, you could experiment with other cola-based sodas. However, the unique flavor of Dr Pepper is what makes these ribs special, so it’s highly recommended.
- Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
- A: Yes, you can braise the ribs in the oven. Place the ribs in a Dutch oven with the Dr Pepper, cover, and bake at 325°F for 2-3 hours, or until tender. Then, follow the remaining steps for glazing and baking.
- Q: Can I use a different cut of ribs?
- A: Country-style ribs work best because they are meaty and flavorful. However, you can also use spare ribs or baby back ribs, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Q: Can I prepare the ribs ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can cook the ribs in the slow cooker ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, glaze and bake as directed.
- Q: How do I know when the ribs are done?
- A: The ribs are done when they are very tender and easily pull apart. The meat should be pulling back from the bones.
