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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Ribs

Juicy, fall-off-the-bone pork spare ribs slow-cooked in Dr Pepper and barbecue sauce, then caramelized under the broiler for the perfect sticky glaze. A true crowd-pleaser!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Finish Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. Season ribs with spice rub. Cut in half if needed.
  2. Place in slow cooker. Add Dr Pepper and 1 cup barbecue sauce.
  3. Cook on high 3–4 hours (tender) or 5–6 hours (fall-off-the-bone). On low: 8 hours.
  4. Remove ribs. Mix ¼ cup cooking liquid with remaining barbecue sauce.
  5. Place ribs on foil-lined baking sheet. Brush with sauce.
  6. Broil 15–20 minutes until glaze is sticky.
  7. Slice and serve hot.
  8. 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.