These 4-ingredient slow cooker country-style pork ribs are the kind of easy supper that saves a busy day. You simply layer raw country-style pork ribs into the slow cooker with a few pantry staples and let the crock do the work until the meat turns tender, flavorful, and ready for the table. It is a comforting, budget-friendly dinner that feels hearty enough for Sunday supper but is simple enough for a regular weeknight.
Serve these saucy pork ribs with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, rice, or creamy mac and cheese to soak up all those tasty juices. For vegetables, I like green beans, corn, roasted carrots, or a simple coleslaw for a fresh crunch. Warm rolls or a piece of cornbread round everything out nicely and make the meal feel extra homey.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Country-Style Pork Ribs
Servings: 6
Ingredients
3 to 4 pounds raw country-style pork ribs
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 packet onion soup mix, about 1 ounce
1 can cola, 12 ounces
Directions
1. Place the raw country-style pork ribs in the bottom of a slow cooker in an even layer.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, onion soup mix, and cola until well combined.
3. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the ribs, cover, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is very tender.
4. Carefully transfer the ribs to a serving platter and spoon some of the cooking sauce over the top before serving.
Variations & Tips
For a sweeter sauce: If your family likes a sweeter barbecue flavor, use a honey or brown sugar style barbecue sauce. This is a nice option for kids and balances the savory onion soup mix well.
For a little heat: Stir a spoonful of chili sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper into the sauce mixture if you want a gentle kick. It adds extra flavor without making the dish too spicy for most families.
For easier cleanup: A slow cooker liner can make washing up much faster on a busy night. If you use one, still make sure the ribs are arranged in a single, even layer as much as possible so they cook evenly.
To thicken the sauce: If you want a thicker sauce for serving, remove the cooked ribs and pour the liquid into a saucepan. Simmer it on the stove for a few minutes until it reduces, then spoon it back over the pork.
For picky eaters: Trim away any large pieces of fat after cooking and shred the tender meat before serving. The shredded pork is wonderful over noodles or tucked into sandwich buns for an easy family-friendly twist.