Slow cooker country style ribs are a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy families or relaxed weekend dinners. At Yumi Meals, I believe cooking should be joyful and accessible, and this recipe reflects that. Inspired by my love for homemade, soul-warming meals, these boneless pork ribs are slow-cooked until fork-tender, coated in rich BBQ sauce, and packed with flavor—no grill or smoker needed. This dish came from a moment when I needed something simple but deeply satisfying, and it’s become a favorite in my kitchen ever since.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Are Country Style Ribs?
Understanding Country Style Ribs vs. Traditional Ribs
If you’ve ever picked up a pack of country style ribs at the grocery store and wondered how they differ from traditional ribs, you’re not alone. Despite their name, these cuts aren’t actually taken from the rib section of the pig. Instead, country style ribs are cut from the pork shoulder, particularly the blade end, which gives them their rich marbling and hearty texture. That’s the same area used for pulled pork, which explains their rich marbling and deep flavor.
Unlike baby back or spare ribs, these cuts are thicker, meatier, and often boneless, making them perfect for slow cooking. They give you all the satisfying flavor of ribs with less mess and more meat per bite—which is a win in any busy kitchen.
Where This Cut Comes From on the Pig
True ribs come from the ribcage, but country style pork ribs are taken from the shoulder or sometimes the sirloin. Because of this, they have more fat and connective tissue, which breaks down beautifully in a slow cooker. The low and slow cooking process transforms them into ultra-tender bites of BBQ heaven.
Print
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs – The Best BBQ Ever
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Slowcooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
The easiest slow cooker country style ribs you will EVER make. Prep these Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs in about 5 minutes and come back hours later to melt in your mouth BBQ ribs! Dinner doesn’t get any more simple than this!
Ingredients
- 3 lb. country style ribs
- 1 ½ c BBQ Sauce
- 2 tsp ground mustard
- 2 tsp paprika
- ¼ – ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 – 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp cracked pepper
- ½ tsp sea salt, more or less to taste
Instructions
- Place country style ribs in a slow cooker. Add mustard, cayenne, paprika, salt, pepper and garlic and toss to evenly coat the meat. Press the seasoning gently into the ribs. Pour the BBQ sauce over top of the meat to cover.
- Cook ribs for 6-8 hours on low for best results until easily falling apart with a fork. Transfer to serving dish and cover with extra BBQ sauce from the slow cooker pot. You can broil them for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is bubbling if desired. Allow to rest for about 5 minutes before digging in!
- The meat will not come out as tender, but you can cook on high for 4-6 hours.
Notes
You can eat these boneless country style pork ribs with a fork easily. They fall apart nicely. If you don’t touch or stir them until you are ready to eat, you should also be able to eat them with your hands. Up to you. You can break them into chunks and add the meat on a bun as well.
If the meat is still tough, it is likely not done. Do not worry about over cooking your pork in this recipe. If you are cooking on low, they will turn out fork tender, melt in your mouth, so just wait a bit longer if they are still not easily breaking apart.
For best results, cook this recipe on low temperature setting. If you can cook these on low, please do. There is NOTHING like slow, and I mean slow cooked pork. They say the best that comes to those who wait and that is 100% true in this case.
Broil the ribs before serving with extra BBQ sauce if desired. One way to really make these country ribs even better is to remove from the crockpot before serving and smothering with extra sauce. Broil on high for 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to bubble. Amazing!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 520kcal
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 633mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 168mg
This also makes them more affordable and easier to handle than traditional ribs. Whether boneless or bone-in, they deliver amazing texture and flavor when cooked low and slow with BBQ sauce or your favorite rub.
Boneless vs. Bone-In: Which Is Better in a Slow Cooker?
You can make this slow cooker country style ribs recipe with either boneless or bone-in cuts, but many home cooks (including me!) prefer boneless ribs for their ease. They’re simpler to layer in the crockpot, easier to serve, and perfect for shredding or slicing.
Still, bone-in country ribs do offer a slight boost in flavor as the bone releases collagen during the cook. If you’ve got the time and don’t mind a little extra cleanup, either option will work deliciously well.
Discover great ideas like BBQ Corned Beef Brisket Recipe if you’re exploring more slow-cooked meats with bold flavors.
Why Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs Are the Best
Why Use a Crockpot for Boneless Pork Ribs?
When it comes to slow cooker country style ribs, the crockpot isn’t just a convenience—it’s the secret weapon. These ribs are taken from a tougher, more marbled cut of meat (the pork shoulder), which means they absolutely thrive in low and slow heat. The longer they cook, the more tender they become, making the crockpot an ideal cooking method.
The closed environment of a slow cooker allows the ribs to cook in their own juices, absorbing every bit of seasoning and BBQ sauce without drying out. This method locks in flavor and moisture, giving you that perfect fall-apart texture with barely any effort.
Forget standing over a stove or watching a grill—just season, set it, and come back hours later to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
Don’t miss our Summer Slow Cooker Recipes for more dishes that are perfect for warm-weather cooking without heating up the kitchen.
Flavor, Texture, and Convenience Combined
One of the biggest reasons these ribs are a fan favorite is that they check all the boxes:
- Flavor: Thanks to the fat content and marbling of country style ribs, the meat soaks up seasonings and sauces like a sponge. The result? Deep, rich BBQ flavor in every bite.
- Texture: The slow cooker breaks down connective tissue and fat slowly, leaving the ribs incredibly tender and juicy. Whether you eat them with a fork or pile them on a bun, the texture is unbeatable.
- Convenience: With just 5 minutes of prep, this is a true set-it-and-forget-it recipe. Perfect for busy weekdays, family gatherings, or laid-back weekends.
You can also customize them with your favorite sauces and seasonings. Sweet, smoky, spicy—whatever your BBQ style, it works beautifully in this dish.
Check out our Slow Cooker Recipes Using Ground Turkey if you’re looking for other easy and healthy slow-cooked options.
Ingredients You Need for Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Must-Have Ingredients for Flavorful Country Style Ribs
When it comes to making the perfect slow cooker country style ribs, the beauty lies in simplicity. With just a few staple ingredients, you can transform an affordable cut of pork into a deeply flavorful, fall-apart meal the whole family will crave.
Here’s what you’ll need to make your slow cooker country style ribs taste like they came straight from a BBQ pit:
- Boneless country-style pork ribs – They’re the highlight and main attraction of this dish. Look for well-marbled cuts for the juiciest results. While bone-in works too, boneless ribs are easier to layer and serve.
- Barbecue sauce – Choose your favorite BBQ sauce to smother the ribs. Whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy, the sauce caramelizes beautifully during the slow cook.
- Minced garlic – A must for bold flavor. Garlic powder is a great substitute if that’s what you have available.
- Paprika – Use regular for a mild kick or smoked paprika for that irresistible BBQ depth.
- Ground mustard – Adds a subtle tang that balances out the sweetness of the sauce.
- Cayenne pepper – Totally optional, but a pinch gives your slow cooker ribs a gentle heat.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning the meat and bringing out all the other flavors.
These simple ingredients are what make this slow cooker country style ribs recipe not just easy, but unforgettable.
Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Candied Yams Recipes—they’re a perfect side for this sticky-sweet pork dish.
Flavor Boosters to Make It Your Own
One of the best parts about this dish is how easy it is to customize. Want to take your country style ribs in the slow cooker to the next level? Try these extras:
- Brown sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize.
- Onion powder – Boosts the savory profile.
- Red pepper flakes or chili powder – Great if you like your ribs with a spicy edge.
- Liquid smoke – Adds rich, smoky BBQ flavor without the need for a grill.
- Apple cider vinegar – Cuts through the richness and balances sweet sauces.
All of these ingredients mix and match perfectly, allowing you to make your slow cooker country style ribs unique every time.
Is Homemade BBQ Sauce Worth It?
You don’t need a homemade sauce to make amazing slow cooker country style ribs, but it’s a great option if you want full control over the flavor. A simple blend of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices makes a fantastic DIY sauce that clings beautifully to the meat.
That said, store-bought sauces like Stubb’s or Sweet Baby Ray’s are more than enough to make your ribs delicious with zero stress. Whether homemade or from a bottle, the magic happens during the slow cook—when that sauce thickens, caramelizes, and gets pulled deep into every bite of the pork.
Looking for more slow cooker flavor? Explore our Cinco De Mayo Slow Cooker Recipes for globally inspired crockpot meals.
How to Make Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prep Your Boneless Pork Ribs
Start by placing your country style ribs into the bottom of your slow cooker. Whether you’re using boneless or bone-in, make sure the ribs sit in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Next, sprinkle your seasoning mix directly over the meat. Combine sea salt, cracked black pepper, paprika, ground mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of cayenne (if you like heat). Gently press the seasoning into the ribs so it sticks and acts like a dry rub.
This simple seasoning base sets the foundation for incredibly flavorful slow cooker country style ribs without needing extra steps.
Step 2: Add the BBQ Sauce
Once the ribs are well coated with your spice mix, pour the BBQ sauce over them. You’ll want to cover the meat generously—about 1 to 1½ cups should do it for a 3-pound batch of country style ribs.
As the ribs cook, the sauce will meld with the pork juices, creating a thick, flavorful glaze that clings to every bite. You don’t need to stir or flip anything—just let the slow cooker do all the work.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. That’s the sweet spot for juicy, fork-tender ribs that break apart with ease. If you’re short on time, HIGH for 4 to 6 hours will work, but low heat yields the most tender results.
You’ll know your slow cooker country style ribs are done when you can twist a fork in the meat and it falls apart effortlessly.
Explore delicious options like our Spring Slow Cooker Recipes for more low-effort, high-reward crockpot meals.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once your ribs are cooked through and fall-apart tender, transfer them to a serving dish. Spoon extra BBQ sauce from the slow cooker over the top—or add a fresh layer of your favorite sauce.
Optional pro tip: For that irresistible sticky finish, place the cooked ribs on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2–3 minutes until the sauce bubbles and caramelizes. It’s a game-changer!
Now your slow cooker country style ribs are ready to serve. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own, piling them onto a sandwich bun, or pairing them with classic sides, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
Expert Tips to Make Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs Extra Tender and Juicy
The Secret to Tender Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
The real magic of slow cooker country style ribs comes down to how you cook them. If you’re aiming for juicy, fall-apart ribs, the trick is simple: cook them low and slow. This cooking method gives the fat and connective tissue in the pork time to break down properly, resulting in ultra-tender ribs with rich, meaty flavor.
Most importantly, don’t rush the process. Set your crockpot to LOW for 6–8 hours, and let the slow heat transform the ribs into something truly mouthwatering. If your slow cooker country style ribs still feel firm, give them more time—they’ll get there.
Should You Sear Ribs Before Putting Them in the Slow Cooker?
A common question when making slow cooker country style ribs is whether you should sear them first. While searing isn’t necessary, it can deepen the flavor.
Searing the ribs in a skillet for a few minutes per side caramelizes the outside, adding a bit of texture and richness. But if you’re short on time or prefer the easiest prep, feel free to skip this step. The slow cooker will still deliver that fork-tender finish without any added work.
For most weeknight meals, I skip the sear and still get incredible results with my slow cooker country style ribs recipe.
Check out our BBQ Corned Beef Brisket Recipe if you love hearty, saucy meats that cook low and slow.
Broil for That Sticky, BBQ-Glazed Finish
Looking to elevate your slow cooker country-style ribs to the next level? After slow cooking, transfer them to a baking sheet, brush with more BBQ sauce, and broil on HIGH for 2–3 minutes.
This adds a beautiful, caramelized finish to the ribs that’s sticky, smoky, and slightly crisp on the edges—just like something you’d get off the grill. It’s a small step with a big impact.
Even though the ribs are delicious straight from the crockpot, this broiling step gives them that irresistible BBQ-style glaze we all love.
Don’t Stir While Cooking—Let the Slow Cooker Work
As tempting as it may be, avoid stirring your slow cooker country style ribs while they’re cooking. Let them sit undisturbed for the full cook time. This keeps the ribs intact and allows the flavors to fully infuse.
Once they’re ready, gently lift the ribs out with tongs, drizzle with sauce, and serve. You’ll see how easily the meat falls apart—that’s the hallmark of perfectly cooked slow cooker country-style ribs.
Best Side Dishes to Serve With Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
When you’re serving up a delicious plate of slow cooker country style ribs, the right side dishes take your meal from good to unforgettable. These ribs are rich, juicy, and coated in sticky BBQ sauce, so it’s important to pair them with sides that complement their bold flavor or add a fresh, crisp contrast.
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a backyard-style BBQ night, these go-to options make the perfect match for your slow cooker country style ribs recipe.
Comfort Food Sides That Complete Your Rib Plate
Craving that warm, home-style vibe? These hearty, satisfying sides are perfect for slow cooker country style ribs because they soak up the sauce and balance the meaty richness of the pork.
- Mac and Cheese – The creamy texture and gooey cheese create a comfort combo that never fails beside BBQ ribs.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Smooth, buttery, and perfect for catching extra BBQ sauce from your country style pork ribs.
- Cheddar Gruyère Mac – A gourmet upgrade that pairs beautifully with slow-cooked pork.
- Cornbread or Soft Dinner Rolls – A classic side to scoop and swipe up every bit of sauce from your slow cooker meal.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes Recipe—a rich and creamy side that bakes low and slow just like your ribs.
Fresh and Lighter Sides for Balance
While slow cooker country style ribs are packed with rich BBQ flavor, pairing them with lighter sides keeps your meal feeling fresh and balanced.
- Spring Green Salad – A light vinaigrette and crisp greens refresh the palate after every rib.
- Air Fried Broccoli – Crispy on the edges and naturally flavorful, this is an easy veggie win.
- Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad – Crunchy, tangy, and a great contrast to sweet and smoky pork ribs.
- Roasted Garlic Green Beans – A straightforward, flavorful side that complements and highlights the ribs beautifully.
Don’t miss our Lentil Stew Recipe Slow Cooker—a nourishing, make-ahead dish that complements BBQ flavors beautifully.
Creative BBQ Side Dish Ideas to Impress Your Guests
If you’re serving slow cooker country style ribs for a gathering or a family BBQ, why not mix things up? These creative sides offer new textures and flavors that go beyond the basics.
- Cajun Potato Salad – Spicy and creamy, this version adds a bold kick that plays off the ribs’ smoky flavor.
- Smoky Sweet Potato Fries – Sweet, crispy, and perfect for dipping in extra BBQ sauce.
- Grilled Zucchini Pasta Salad – Bright, herby, and full of texture—just the thing to lighten the plate.
- Protein Cheesy Mac – Creamy, protein-rich comfort food that pairs well with saucy, slow-cooked pork.
Each of these dishes enhances the flavor and texture of your slow cooker country style ribs, turning dinner into an experience. Because when the ribs are this easy to make, you’ve got time to focus on the perfect pairings.
How to Store, Reheat, and Freeze Leftover Country Style Ribs
One of the best things about making slow cooker country style ribs is that the leftovers are just as good—if not better—the next day. With the right storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy every juicy bite again and again without losing flavor or texture.
Here’s how to properly store, reheat, and even freeze your leftover slow cooker country style ribs for maximum taste and convenience.
How to Store Leftover Country Style Ribs the Right Way
Once your slow cooker country style ribs have cooled slightly, place them in an airtight container along with some of the leftover BBQ sauce or juices from the crockpot. Keeping the meat nestled in that sauce helps prevent it from drying out in the fridge.
For best results:
- Store in shallow containers to allow the ribs to chill evenly.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Always store the ribs with their sauce to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
This method ensures your ribs stay tender and ready to reheat whenever you’re craving more.
How to Reheat Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Reheating slow cooker country style ribs properly makes all the difference. Whether you’re warming up a single portion or feeding a few people, here are your best options:
- Microwave: Add ribs to a microwave-safe dish and top with a spoonful of BBQ sauce. Cover loosely and heat for 1–2 minutes per rib, checking for warmth in the center.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F. Wrap the ribs in foil, add extra sauce, and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Air Fryer: For a crispy outside, reheat ribs in an air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes.
- Slow Cooker (again): If you’re reheating a larger batch, pop them back in the slow cooker on LOW for about 1–2 hours with a splash of water or sauce.
Whichever method you choose, make sure your slow cooker country style ribs are heated thoroughly and always serve with extra sauce for that fresh-cooked flavor.
Can You Freeze Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs? Absolutely.
Freezing your leftover slow cooker country style ribs is a smart way to meal prep or save for another time. Here’s how to do it right:
- Let the ribs cool completely.
- Place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top bag with some of the leftover sauce.
- Label and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat using your preferred method.
This makes it easy to enjoy tender, saucy country style ribs anytime—even on your busiest days.
Variations of Country Style Ribs in a Slow Cooker
One of the best things about making slow cooker country style ribs is how customizable the recipe is. With a simple tweak in sauce or seasoning, you can enjoy a completely new flavor profile—making this dish a versatile weeknight go-to or a standout at any gathering.
Below are creative and delicious ways to change things up and make your slow cooker country style ribs fresh every time you cook them.
Switch Up the Sauce for a New Flavor Experience
Changing your BBQ sauce is one of the easiest ways to put a new spin on your slow cooker country style ribs. Here are a few flavor options to try:
- Sweet & Smoky BBQ – Add brown sugar and smoked paprika to your sauce for that backyard cookout taste.
- Spicy Chipotle – Mix chipotle peppers in adobo into your BBQ sauce for a smoky, spicy punch.
- Korean BBQ – Use gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of honey for an umami-rich twist.
- Honey Garlic – Combine BBQ sauce with honey and minced garlic for a sticky, sweet profile.
Each of these brings something new to your table—and works beautifully in the slow cooker.
Experiment With Seasoning Blends and Rubs
Beyond sauces, the rub you use on your country style ribs can completely change the flavor. Try these spice combos:
- Memphis Dry Rub – Paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar.
- Caribbean Jerk – Allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and chili flakes.
- Tex-Mex – Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano.
Rub your ribs generously before slow cooking for a deeper, layered flavor that shines under the sauce.
Discover great ideas like our Cinco De Mayo Slow Cooker Recipes for globally inspired slow-cooked meals that pack bold, exciting flavor.
Use Different Liquids to Change the Braise
Although BBQ sauce is traditional, other liquids can be used to cook your slow cooker country style ribs for a different texture or flavor infusion:
- Apple juice or cider – Adds a natural sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.
- Cola or root beer – Surprisingly effective for a sweet, caramelized finish.
- Beer – Especially dark beer or stout, which adds depth and richness.
- Beef or chicken broth – Keeps things simple but flavorful, especially when paired with a dry rub.
Just remember to keep your liquid minimal—about ¼ to ½ cup—since country style ribs release plenty of moisture during cooking.
Try Bone-In Ribs for a More Traditional Touch
While boneless pork ribs are convenient, bone-in country style ribs also shine in the slow cooker. The bones add a deeper, more savory flavor as they cook and break down.
They may require slightly more time to cook, but the result is a richer, more classic BBQ taste that still falls right off the bone.
Conclusion
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, prepping for a BBQ party, or just craving something savory and comforting, slow cooker country style ribs are a true go-to. With just a handful of ingredients, minimal prep, and a reliable slow cooker, you can serve up a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and fall-apart tender every time.
From classic BBQ to international twists, these ribs offer endless flexibility. And the best part? You don’t need to stand over a stove or fire up a grill—just set it and forget it.
For more recipes Follow me in facebook and Pinterest.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Summer Slow Cooker Recipes for more effortless meals with bold, seasonal flavors.
Now it’s your turn—fire up that crockpot, grab your favorite BBQ sauce, and enjoy the finger-licking goodness of slow cooker country style ribs. Your dinner table will thank you.
AQs About Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Do you need liquid in a slow cooker for ribs?
When cooking slow cooker country style ribs, you generally don’t need to add extra liquid—especially if you’re using BBQ sauce. Country style ribs are naturally marbled and release plenty of moisture during the long, slow cooking process. The BBQ sauce acts as both the cooking liquid and flavor base, keeping the ribs moist and tender.
That said, if you’re making slow cooker country style ribs with a dry rub or minimal sauce, adding a small amount of broth, water, apple juice, or even cola (around ¼ to ½ cup) can help create a flavorful braising environment and prevent sticking.
Do country style ribs get more tender the longer they cook?
Yes—slow cooker country style ribs absolutely become more tender the longer they cook. Since this cut comes from the pork shoulder, it contains more connective tissue and fat, which need time to break down. Cooking on LOW for 6 to 8 hours is the sweet spot for achieving fork-tender, fall-apart ribs.
If your ribs still feel tough, give them more time in the slow cooker. The transformation happens slowly, but the result is worth the wait: unbelievably juicy and tender slow cooker country style ribs.
Should you sear country ribs before slow cooking?
Searing your slow cooker country style ribs before cooking is optional—but it does add an extra layer of flavor. A quick sear in a hot skillet caramelizes the surface of the meat, creating a richer, deeper taste once they finish cooking.
However, if you’re short on time, don’t worry—these slow cooker country style ribs are still incredibly flavorful and tender without searing. Many home cooks skip the step and still enjoy great results. It’s all about how much prep you’re willing to do.
Are ribs better in the crockpot or oven?
When it comes to country style ribs, the slow cooker often wins for convenience, consistency, and tenderness. Cooking ribs in a crockpot on LOW for several hours gives you that melt-in-your-mouth texture with hardly any effort. That’s what makes slow cooker country style ribs such a popular family recipe.
The oven is great if you want a bit more char or crust on your ribs, especially if you finish them under a broiler. But for hands-off cooking and unbeatable tenderness, the slow cooker method is hard to beat—especially for boneless pork ribs.
Welcome to Yumi Meals!
I’m Yumi, and this space is a heartfelt extension of my lifelong love for cooking. What began in my grandmother’s kitchen has become a journey of sharing soulful, approachable recipes that celebrate connection, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, I hope Yumi Meals brings warmth and inspiration to your table.
