Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce are a must-try for any barbecue lover. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in. The unique blend of root beer and spices creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the tender ribs. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work, making this dish both convenient and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic.
- Delectable Flavor: The combination of root beer and spices creates a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These ribs are sure to impress family and friends at any gathering or celebration.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own or pair with sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.
- Easy Clean-Up: Using a slow cooker means less mess in the kitchen, making clean-up a breeze.
Tools and Preparation
To make Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Baking sheet
- Large spatula
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is your main cooking device; it allows the ribs to become incredibly tender without constant attention.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your spice rub ingredients, ensuring an even coating on the ribs.
- Baking sheet: Helps in broiling the ribs after they’ve cooked in the slow cooker, giving them that perfect caramelized finish.
Ingredients
For the Spice Rub
- 3 tablespoons coarse kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
For the Ribs
- 2 racks beef baby back ribs (trimmed)
- 1 large yellow or white onion (sliced)
- 1/2 cup root beer
For the BBQ Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
- 1 cup root beer
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 tablespoon minced chipotle in adobo sauce (leave out the seeds for less heat)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, stir together the coarse kosher salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, chili powder, and paprika. Ensure you remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Spread this spice mixture over the meaty side of each rib rack and rub gently until well coated.
Step 2: Set Up Your Slow Cooker
Add the sliced onion and 1/2 cup root beer into your slow cooker. Place the seasoned ribs on top. You may need to cut them to fit properly. Cover and set your slow cooker to high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.
Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce
While waiting for your ribs, heat a saucepan over medium heat with olive oil. Add in finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until onions soften. Pour in 1 cup of root beer and bring it to a boil. Reduce by half over 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients for Sauce
Stir in BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chipotles, and Worcestershire sauce into your reduced root beer mix. Season with salt and black pepper—start with about 1/4 teaspoon each.
Step 5: Simmer Your Sauce
Let this mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Once done simmering, let it cool slightly before blending until smooth using either a blender or an immersion blender.
Step 6: Broil The Ribs
After cooking time is complete for your ribs, preheat your oven broiler and arrange an oven rack about 4-6 inches from heating element. Line a large baking sheet with foil.
Step 7: Transfer Ribs to Baking Sheet
Using a large spatula and tongs (the ribs will be very tender), carefully lift them from your slow cooker onto your prepared baking sheet in one layer. Brush generously with your prepared BBQ sauce.
Step 8: Finish Under Broiler
Broil these sauced ribs for about 2-3 minutes until bubbling and caramelized but keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Step 9: Serve
Serve hot with remaining BBQ sauce on the side for dipping! Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce
Serving Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce is an enjoyable experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Classic Sides
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the tender ribs.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the smoky flavors of the ribs.
- Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add a rich flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Creative Pairings
- Pickled Vegetables: Add a tangy element to balance the richness of the ribs.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort and pairs well with BBQ.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection provide a healthy complement.
Dipping Sauces
- Extra Root Beer BBQ Sauce: Serve additional sauce on the side for those who want more flavor.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a kick, a dash of hot sauce can add a spicy note.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce
To make sure your Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve tender, flavorful ribs every time.
- Use Quality Ribs: Select fresh, meaty baby back ribs for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinate Overnight: Allowing the spice rub to sit on the ribs overnight can enhance flavor absorption.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat for longer will result in more tender meat that falls off the bone.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary by slow cooker model.
- Broil for Crispiness: Finish under the broiler briefly to caramelize the sauce for added texture and flavor.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing ribs to rest for a few minutes after broiling helps retain juices.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce
Pairing delicious sides with your Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs will create a complete meal. Here are some excellent side dish ideas that go well with your main course.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds heartiness and balances out the flavors of the BBQ.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred brings a delightful crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing provides freshness against rich ribs.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer sweetness that pairs beautifully with BBQ sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized sprouts add earthy flavors that complement your meal nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not removing the membrane: Failing to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs can result in tough meat. Make sure to peel it off before seasoning for tender, flavorful ribs.
- Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker. Always check for tenderness by using a fork; they should be fall-apart tender.
- Skipping the spice rub: The spice rub adds essential flavor. Don’t be tempted to skip it; massage it into the meat thoroughly for a delicious taste.
- Using too much sauce at once: While it’s tempting to drown the ribs in sauce, start with a light coat before broiling. This helps achieve that perfect caramelized crust without overwhelming the flavors.
- Neglecting proper storage: If you have leftovers, store them properly. Use airtight containers for refrigeration or freezing to keep them fresh longer.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce in airtight containers.
- They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow them to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce
- Freeze ribs in airtight freezer bags or containers.
- They will stay good for up to 3 months.
- For best results, separate sauce and ribs before freezing.
Reheating Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ribs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place ribs in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I cook Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce?
Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours, depending on your slow cooker settings.
Can I customize the BBQ sauce used?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own using different ingredients for unique flavors.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs?
These ribs pair well with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a hearty meal.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
Ribs are done when they are tender enough that you can easily pull meat away from the bone using a fork.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce is an irresistible dish that brings flavor and convenience together. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying dinner at home, these ribs will impress everyone at the table. Feel free to customize your spice rub or BBQ sauce to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try!
Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavor of Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs with Root Beer BBQ Sauce, a delightful dish that combines convenience and taste. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, these tender ribs are infused with a unique blend of root beer and spices that create a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. With minimal preparation time, you can let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy quality time with loved ones. Pair these flavorful ribs with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread to elevate your meal experience.
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 4
Ingredients
- 2 racks beef baby back ribs
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 1/2 cup root beer (for cooking and sauce)
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons coarse kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced chipotle in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the spice rub by mixing kosher salt, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, chili powder, and paprika in a bowl. Rub this mixture onto the meaty side of the ribs.
- In the slow cooker, add sliced onion and 1/2 cup root beer; place the seasoned ribs on top. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.
- For the BBQ sauce, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat; add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Pour in 1 cup of root beer and reduce by half.
- Stir in remaining BBQ sauce ingredients, season to taste, then simmer for 10-15 minutes before blending until smooth.
- Once ribs are cooked, transfer them to a baking sheet, brush with BBQ sauce, and broil for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rack rib (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the spice rub overnight. Serve with sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a complete meal.
