Dr Pepper Ribs

Tender, Flavorful, and Irresistible

If you’re a fan of tender, fall-apart ribs with a deep, smoky sweetness, you’re in for a treat. These Dr Pepper Ribs combine the rich caramel notes of Dr Pepper soda with a tangy barbecue sauce, creating a dish that’s packed with bold flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Made in a slow cooker and finished in the oven for the perfect glaze, this recipe is both effortless and incredibly rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, and backyard barbecues. The slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting, making it ideal for those who want maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a get-together, these ribs will be the star of the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4.5 pounds country-style pork ribs – Perfect for slow cooking, these ribs become incredibly tender.
  • 2 (12-ounce) cans of Dr Pepper soda, divided – Adds a rich caramel-like sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.
  • 3/4 cup BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite brand for the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
  • 2 teaspoons liquid smoke – Gives the ribs a deep, smoky aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth and savoriness to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Slow Cook the Ribs

  • Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour 1 can of Dr Pepper over them.
  • Cover and cook on low for 7 hours or high for 4 hours until tender.

2. Prepare the Oven

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  • Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This helps air circulate around the ribs for an even glaze.

3. Make the BBQ Glaze

  • In a bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, black pepper, and 1/2 cup of Dr Pepper.

4. Glaze and Bake

  • Move the ribs from the slow cooker to the wire rack.
  • Brush the ribs generously with the sauce and bake for 15 minutes.
  • Flip the ribs, brush with another coat of sauce, and bake for another 15 minutes.
  • Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker – Essential for achieving fall-apart tenderness.
  • Baking sheet – Used for finishing the ribs in the oven.
  • Wire rack – Ensures even cooking and glazing.
  • Basting brush – Helps apply the BBQ sauce evenly.
  • Mixing bowl – To prepare the sauce mixture.

Tips and Variations

Make it Spicy

  • Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ glaze for a spicy kick.

Try a Different Soda

  • While Dr Pepper adds a unique caramelized sweetness, you can experiment with root beer or cola for a similar effect.

Use Beef Ribs

  • If you prefer beef, swap the pork ribs for beef short ribs and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Quick-Cook Alternative

  • If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked ribs and brush them with the sauce before baking for 20-25 minutes.

How to Store and Reheat

Storing Leftovers

  • Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

  • Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 15 minutes or until warmed through.
  • You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but they may lose some texture.

What to Serve with Dr Pepper Ribs

Pair these ribs with delicious sides to complete your meal:

  • Coleslaw – A crisp, tangy contrast to the rich ribs.
  • Cornbread – Sweet and buttery, perfect for soaking up sauce.
  • Baked Beans – Smoky, hearty, and full of flavor.
  • Grilled Corn on the Cob – Adds a fresh, summery bite.
  • Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting, a great side for ribs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless ribs?

Yes! Boneless country-style ribs work just as well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cook time as they may require slightly less time to become tender.

2. Do I have to use liquid smoke?

Liquid smoke enhances the flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it or substitute with smoked paprika for a similar effect.

3. Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Bake the ribs covered at 300°F for 3 hours, then uncover, apply the sauce, and continue baking at 400°F for another 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Can I use a different barbecue sauce?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce or make a homemade version with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.

Give This Recipe a Try!

Dr Pepper Ribs are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with deep, smoky-sweet flavor. If you love tender, saucy ribs that fall off the bone, this recipe is for you!

If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes.

Leave a Comment