These Dr Pepper Ribs are the perfect combination of tender, juicy meat and a rich, sticky glaze that’s sweet, tangy, and irresistibly smoky. The magic happens in two stages: first, the ribs slowly simmer away in Dr Pepper until they’re melt-in-your-mouth soft, then they’re finished in the oven with a luscious BBQ sauce that caramelizes beautifully. It’s comfort food meets backyard barbecue, and it’s easier to make than you might think. Ideal for a weekend cookout or even a weeknight treat when you want something special without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Prep: The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to relax.
- Incredible Flavor: Dr Pepper adds a unique depth of sweetness that pairs perfectly with smoky BBQ sauce.
- Tender Perfection: Low and slow cooking ensures ribs that are juicy and fall-apart tender.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves ribs, and this version is always the first to disappear from the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Country-Style Pork Ribs: Meaty and hearty, these are perfect for soaking up all the flavors.
- Dr Pepper Soda: Adds sweetness, depth, and a touch of caramel flavor.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite; smoky, tangy varieties work beautifully.
- Liquid Smoke: Brings that authentic barbecue flavor even without a grill.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory punch to balance the sweetness.
- Ground Black Pepper: A little kick to enhance all the flavors.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder to the sauce.
- Honey-Glazed: Drizzle in a tablespoon of honey for extra stickiness and sweetness.
- Different Soda: Try root beer or cola for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Grill Finish: Instead of baking, finish the ribs on a hot grill for smoky charred edges.
How to Make Dr Pepper Ribs
Step 1: Slow Cook the Ribs
Place the ribs in your slow cooker and pour in 1 can of Dr Pepper. Cover and cook on low for about 7 hours, or high for about 4 hours, until the ribs are tender and nearly falling apart.
Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Sauce
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top. In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, black pepper, and the remaining Dr Pepper.
Step 3: Glaze the Ribs
Transfer the ribs carefully from the slow cooker to the wire rack. Brush generously with the sauce mixture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the ribs for 15 minutes, then flip, glaze again, and bake another 15 minutes until the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve the ribs with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use a Wire Rack: This allows heat to circulate for even caramelization.
- Don’t Skip the Flip: Glazing both sides ensures maximum flavor.
- Let Them Rest: A few minutes of resting helps the juices settle before serving.
- Choose the Right BBQ Sauce: A smoky, tangy sauce balances the sweetness of Dr Pepper best.
How to Serve
- Classic BBQ Plate: Pair with baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread.
- Picnic Style: Serve with potato salad and grilled corn on the cob.
- Game Day Spread: Cut into smaller portions and serve with sliders, wings, and nachos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Wrap tightly in foil, then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil, until heated through. Add extra sauce before serving.
FAQs
Can I use baby back ribs instead of country-style ribs?
Yes, but you may need to reduce the slow cooker time slightly since baby backs are smaller and cook faster.
Does the Dr Pepper taste strong in the final dish?
Not at all—by the end of cooking, it blends into a rich, slightly sweet background flavor.
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Simmer the ribs gently in a covered Dutch oven at 300°F for 2–3 hours before finishing in the oven.
What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?
A smoky, tangy sauce works best to balance the sweetness, but if you love a sweeter rib, go with a honey BBQ.
Final Thoughts
These Dr Pepper Ribs are pure barbecue comfort—tender, juicy, and loaded with flavor in every bite. They’re easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, and once you try them, they’ll quickly become a regular on your table.
Would you like me to also create a spicy chipotle version of these ribs for variety? That could give readers an extra flavor option.
Print
Dr Pepper Ribs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker + Oven
- Cuisine: American BBQ
Description
Tender, juicy country-style pork ribs slow-cooked in Dr Pepper, then glazed with a smoky BBQ sauce and baked until caramelized for the perfect sweet-tangy finish.
Ingredients
- 3–4 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 2 cans (12 oz each) Dr Pepper soda, divided
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce (smoky and tangy preferred)
- 1 tsp liquid smoke
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Place ribs in a slow cooker and pour in 1 can of Dr Pepper. Cover and cook on low for 7 hours or high for 4 hours, until tender and nearly falling apart.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, black pepper, and the remaining can of Dr Pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer ribs from the slow cooker to the wire rack. Brush generously with sauce.
- Bake for 15 minutes, flip, glaze again, and bake another 15 minutes until sticky and caramelized.
- Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder to the sauce.
- Drizzle in honey for extra sweetness and stickiness.
- Finish on a hot grill instead of in the oven for smoky, charred edges.
