Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Ribs – So Tender, You Might Retire Your Grill!

 

These fall-off-the-bone pork ribs are effortlessly delicious, thanks to the slow cooker. No need to babysit a grill—just set it, forget it, and come back to perfectly tender ribs smothered in barbecue sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 racks pork side ribs (about 3 lbs)
• 2 (12 oz) bottles root beer
• 2 ½ cups barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
  

  Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ribs
     • Remove the silvery membrane from the back of the ribs for maximum tenderness. Slide a spoon under the membrane, grip it with a paper towel, and peel it off.
     • Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Slow Cook
     • Place the ribs in a 6-quart slow cooker (you may need to cut them to fit). Pour the root beer over the ribs.
     • Cover and cook on Low for 5-6 hours or High for 3-4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
  3. Finish with BBQ Sauce
     • Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker and discard the cooking liquid.
     • Return the ribs to the slow cooker and slather with barbecue sauce, coating evenly.
     • Cook on High for 30-60 minutes to let the sauce caramelize slightly.
  4. Optional Grill Finish (For Smoky Flavor)
     • For charred, grill-like ribs, transfer them to a baking sheet, brush with extra sauce, and broil for 3-5 minutes until slightly crispy.
  5. Serve & Enjoy!
     • Slice between the bones, drizzle with extra sauce, and dig in!

  Why You’ll Love It:
   No fuss – Just set and forget!
   Fall-off-the-bone tender – No tough, chewy ribs here.
   Customizable – Use your favorite BBQ sauce or add spices for extra kick.

  Perfect for busy days, game nights, or anytime you crave ribs without the grill hassle!