These slow cooker Dr Pepper ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, sticky, and full of sweet, smoky flavor.
The soda tenderizes the meat while barbecue sauce adds that irresistible tangy glaze.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it meal—your slow cooker does all the work.
The Dr Pepper infuses the ribs with a unique sweetness and depth of flavor.
The final broil gives the ribs a caramelized, finger-licking glaze.
They’re perfect for game day, backyard gatherings, or easy weeknight comfort food.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Pork spare ribs are the star—choose fresh racks with good marbling for tenderness.
Dr Pepper adds a sweet, caramel-like flavor that balances the smoky rub.
A dry spice rub infuses the ribs with layers of seasoning from the start.
Barbecue sauce finishes everything with that sticky, tangy punch.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Remove the rib membrane for the most tender, flavorful results.
If your slow cooker is small, cut racks in half before seasoning.
Cook on low for fall-apart ribs, or high for a quicker option with more bite.
Always finish under the broiler—this step makes the glaze irresistible.
How to Make Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Ribs
Step 1 – Season the ribs
Coat ribs on all sides with your spice rub. Cut in half if needed to fit.
Step 2 – Add to slow cooker
Place ribs inside. Pour in Dr Pepper and 1 cup barbecue sauce. Toss lightly to coat.
Step 3 – Slow cook
Cover with lid. Cook on high 3–4 hours (tender) or 5–6 hours (fall-off-the-bone). On low: 8 hours.
Step 4 – Prepare the glaze
Mix ¼ cup cooking liquid with remaining barbecue sauce. Stir to combine.
Step 5 – Broil to finish
Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush with glaze.
Broil 15–20 minutes until sticky.
Step 6 – Serve
Slice between rib bones. Serve hot with extra sauce.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.
Serve with fries, potato salad, or grilled corn for a barbecue spread.
Add a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap Dr Pepper with root beer or cola for a different sweetness.
Use baby back ribs for a leaner option.
Spice it up by adding cayenne or chili powder to your rub.
Try a smoky barbecue sauce for a deeper flavor profile.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 325°F, covered, until warmed through.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use diet soda instead of regular Dr Pepper?
Yes, but the flavor won’t be as rich since diet versions lack the same caramel notes.
Do I have to broil the ribs?
Yes, it really makes a difference! The broiler caramelizes the glaze and locks in flavor.
What kind of ribs work best?
Spare ribs or baby back ribs both work well. Baby backs are leaner, spare ribs are meatier.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—slow cook the ribs, store them, and broil just before serving.
Do I need to flip the ribs in the slow cooker?
No, the slow cooking liquid surrounds them evenly.
What spice rub works best?
A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper works beautifully.
Final Thoughts
These slow cooker Dr Pepper ribs are sweet, smoky, and saucy with melt-in-your-mouth texture.
They’re easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for a backyard barbecue.
Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Ribs
Ingredients
Method
- Season ribs with spice rub. Cut in half if needed.
- Place in slow cooker. Add Dr Pepper and 1 cup barbecue sauce.
- Cook on high 3–4 hours (tender) or 5–6 hours (fall-off-the-bone). On low: 8 hours.
- Remove ribs. Mix ¼ cup cooking liquid with remaining barbecue sauce.
- Place ribs on foil-lined baking sheet. Brush with sauce.
- Broil 15–20 minutes until glaze is sticky.
- Slice and serve hot.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/slow-cooker-dr-pepper-ribs/
Notes
- Use baby back ribs for a leaner option with slightly less cooking time.
- Swap Dr Pepper for Coke or root beer for a fun flavor twist.
- Perfect for summer cookouts or easy weeknight dinners.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
2 racks pork spare ribs (4–5 lbs, membrane removed)
¼ cup spice rub
1 (12 oz) can Dr Pepper
2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
Instructions
Season ribs with spice rub. Cut in half if needed.
Place in slow cooker. Add Dr Pepper and 1 cup barbecue sauce.
Cook on high 3–4 hours (tender) or 5–6 hours (fall-off-the-bone). On low: 8 hours.
Remove ribs. Mix ¼ cup cooking liquid with remaining barbecue sauce.
Place ribs on foil-lined baking sheet. Brush with sauce.
Broil 15–20 minutes until glaze is sticky.
Slice and serve hot.
SEO Summary
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Meta Description: These slow cooker Dr Pepper ribs are tender, sticky, and full of smoky-sweet flavor. Easy to make with soda, spice rub, and barbecue sauce.
Focus Keyword: Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Ribs
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