When I need supper handled long before the evening gets busy, this 5-ingredient slow cooker pork recipe is one of my favorite warm-weather answers. Raw boneless country-style pork ribs cook down into tender, pull-apart bites in a simple sweet-and-savory sauce, giving you that cookout-style flavor without standing over a grill. It is an easy family meal that feels a little special, especially when everyone is coming and going at different times.
This dish is especially good with coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, potato salad, or a simple watermelon platter for an easy summer table. I also like piling the pork onto soft sandwich buns with pickles, or serving it over mashed potatoes or rice if you want something a little heartier.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Summer Send-Off
Servings: 6
Ingredients
3 pounds raw boneless pork country-style ribs
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray if you like easier cleanup, then place the raw boneless country-style ribs in an even layer in the slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Pour the sauce over the pork, turning the pieces a little if needed so they are well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, until the pork is very tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
5. Gently shred or break up the pork right in the cooker, stir it into the sauce, and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
For sandwich night: Pile the finished pork onto toasted buns and add pickles or coleslaw on top. This is a great way to stretch the meal and makes it easy for kids and guests to serve themselves.
For a less sweet sauce: Use a tangy barbecue sauce and reduce the brown sugar to 1/4 cup if your family prefers a deeper, smokier flavor. You can always stir in a little extra sauce at the end if needed.
For easy cleanup: A slow cooker liner can save time on busy nights. If your sauce seems a little thin at the end, leave the lid off for 15 to 20 minutes on warm so it thickens slightly before serving.
For make-ahead planning: You can mix the sauce the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. In the morning, all you need to do is add the pork, pour over the sauce, and turn on the slow cooker.