Slow Cooker Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients:

For the Ribs and Seasonings:

3 tbsp coarse kosher salt
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp paprika
2 racks of pork baby back ribs, trimmed
1 large onion, yellow or white, sliced
½ cup root beer
For the BBQ Sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ cups onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh garlic, minced
1 cup root beer
1 ½ cups BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
½ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
1 tbsp minced chipotle in adobo sauce (seeds removed for less heat)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the Ribs:

Mix the kosher salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, chili powder, and paprika in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork ribs. Make sure to coat both sides evenly for maximum flavor.
Slice the onion into rings and place them at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Slow Cook the Ribs:

Lay the seasoned ribs on top of the sliced onion in the slow cooker. Pour the ½ cup of root beer over the ribs. This will help tenderize the meat and add a subtle sweetness.
Cover the slow cooker and cook the ribs on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.
3. Make the BBQ Sauce:

While the ribs are cooking, make the homemade BBQ sauce. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the root beer, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chipotle in adobo, and Worcestershire sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes glossy. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Finish the Ribs:

Once the ribs are done cooking, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil (for easy cleanup).
Preheat your broiler to high.
Brush the ribs generously with the homemade BBQ sauce on both sides.
Place the ribs under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce becomes caramelized and bubbly. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
5. Serve:

Remove the ribs from the broiler and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice between the ribs to separate them and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Tips:
For extra smoky flavor: If you have a smoker or grill, you can finish the ribs on the grill after broiling for a few minutes to get a smoky, charred finish.
For less heat in the BBQ sauce: Remove the seeds from the chipotle or use a mild variety of chipotle if you prefer a subtler heat.
Make ahead: The BBQ sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze extra sauce for later use.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) + 10 minutes (finishing with the broiler)
Total Time: ~7-9 hours
Servings: 4-6
These Root Beer BBQ Pork Ribs are so flavorful, tender, and juicy — perfect for a weekend BBQ, family dinner, or any special occasion. Enjoy the sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy goodness!