My brother begs me to make these every weekend because they are so tender and take 3 ingredients
These Slow Cooker BBQ Country Style Ribs are the definition of easy comfort food—juicy, smoky-sweet, and so tender they melt off the bone, all made with just three ingredients and zero stress. No searing, no babysitting, no mess. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, walk away, and return to a dinner that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen.
Cookware & Diningware
Perfect for busy families, potlucks, or game-day feasts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥩 Fall-apart tender with minimal effort
- 🍖 Only 3 ingredients—pantry staples!
- ⏱️ 10 minutes prep, then walk away
- 💛 One slow cooker = easy cleanup
- 💸 Costs under $10—feeds 4–6 generously
The 3 Ingredients You Need
- 3 lbs (1.4 kg) country-style pork ribs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1½ cups (360ml) your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar
💡 Pro Tips:
- Country-style ribs are actually from the shoulder—not true ribs—but they’re marbled, meaty, and perfect for slow cooking.
- Apple cider vinegar tenderizes the meat and balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
- Don’t skip the vinegar—it’s the secret to depth and tenderness!
Step-by-Step Instructions (Saucy, Sticky, Foolproof)
1. Prep the Ribs
- Pat ribs dry; trim excess fat if desired (a little fat = more flavor).
- Place in a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
2. Add Sauce & Vinegar
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- Pour BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar over ribs.
- Gently turn ribs to coat.
Cookware & Diningware
3. Cook Low & Slow
- Cover and cook:
- LOW: 7–8 hours
- HIGH: 4–5 hours
- Ribs are done when fork-tender and easily pull apart.
4. Optional: Broil for Caramelized Finish
- Transfer ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Brush with extra sauce.
- Broil on high 2–3 minutes until sticky and glossy.
Serving Suggestions
- 🥗 Classic plate: Creamy coleslaw + buttery mashed potatoes or baked beans
- 🥖 Sandwich style: Soft buns, pickles, extra BBQ sauce
- 🥦 Lighter option: Roasted carrots, green beans, or simple garden salad
- 🎉 Family-style: Serve straight from the slow cooker or foil pan with tongs—let everyone help themselves!
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
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- Fridge: Keeps up to 4 days—flavor deepens overnight!
- Freeze: Freeze in sauce up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
- Prep ahead: Trim ribs; store in fridge up to 24 hours before cooking.
Vinegar
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use beef ribs?
A: Yes—but reduce liquid slightly and check tenderness earlier.
A: Yes—but reduce liquid slightly and check tenderness earlier.
Q: Too sweet?
A: Use a smoky or spicy BBQ sauce, or add 1 tbsp mustard or Worcestershire.
A: Use a smoky or spicy BBQ sauce, or add 1 tbsp mustard or Worcestershire.
Q: No apple cider vinegar?
A: Substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice—but ACV adds the best balance.
Q: Can I add onions or garlic?
A: Absolutely! They’re not needed for tenderness, but add depth if you like.
A: Absolutely! They’re not needed for tenderness, but add depth if you like.
❤️ The Heart of the Dish
This recipe isn’t fancy—but it’s honest, hearty, and full of soul. It’s what busy families make when they want big flavor without the fuss, and what gets passed around at potlucks because everyone asks for the recipe.
So layer those ribs, pour that sauce, and trust the slow cooker. Because the best meals aren’t complicated—they’re sticky, saucy, and made with love.
“Good ribs don’t need a recipe—they just need pork, sauce, and someone hungry.” 🍖✨
