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Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy ribs infused with the unique sweetness of Dr. Pepper. These Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, offering a delightful twist on a classic dish. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to impress at a summer barbecue or simply want to indulge in some comfort food at home, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These ribs are incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does most of the work, ensuring the ribs are tender and flavorful, while the Dr. Pepper adds a unique sweetness that complements the barbecue sauce perfectly. Plus, who can resist the aroma of ribs cooking all day?
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker
- Casserole dish
- Oven
- Cookie sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Rack for baking
- Basting brush
Ingredients
- 4.5 pounds of country boneless pork ribs
- 2 cans of Dr. Pepper, divided
- 3/4 cup of barbecue sauce (your favorite, we love Sweet Baby Ray’s!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the ribs in the bottom of your casserole dish and pour 1 can of Dr. Pepper over them.
- Cover and cook in the slow cooker for 7 hours on low heat or 4 hours on high heat.
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil and place a rack on top.
- Mix 3/4 cup of barbecue sauce with 1/2 cup of Dr. Pepper soda.
- Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker and place them on the rack.
- Brush the tops of the ribs with the sauce mixture.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then turn the ribs over and brush the other side with the sauce.
- Bake for another 15 minutes until caramelized.
- Serve with the remaining sauce on the side.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your ribs are fully submerged in Dr. Pepper in the slow cooker for maximum flavor infusion.
- For extra caramelization, broil the ribs for a few minutes in the oven after baking.
Additional Tips and Variations
Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the barbecue sauce for a spicy kick, or use a smoky barbecue sauce for a deeper flavor profile. You can also try this recipe with chicken or beef ribs for a different take.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Sugar: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use diet Dr. Pepper?
Yes, you can use diet Dr. Pepper if you’re looking to reduce sugar content, but keep in mind it might slightly alter the flavor.
Can I cook these ribs in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
While the slow cooker helps to tenderize the ribs, you can bake them in the oven at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for about 2.5–3 hours instead.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs are a must-try for any barbecue lover. Their sweet and savory flavor profile is sure to make them a hit at your next gathering. Give them a try and let us know how they turned out! Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you added to the recipe. Happy cooking!
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