Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs

Some recipes are pure magic, and these Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs are no exception. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming tough ribs into fall-off-the-bone perfection, while Dr. Pepper’s subtle sweetness and caramelized depth create a BBQ sauce that’s irresistibly rich.

Why This Recipe Works

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker tenderizes the ribs with minimal effort.
• Dr. Pepper Infusion: The soda’s caramel and spice notes enhance the sauce’s complexity.
• Perfect Texture: Low and slow cooking ensures juicy, pull-apart ribs every time.

Ingredients

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 lbs)
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Sauce:

• 1 ½ cups Dr. Pepper
• 1 cup ketchup
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp liquid smoke (optional, for deeper BBQ flavor)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ribs

Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs. This step is crucial—it allows the flavors to penetrate fully. Mix the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the ribs. Let them rest for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.

2. Slow Cook to Perfection

Place the ribs in the slow cooker, curving them along the sides to fit if necessary. Pour 1 cup of Dr. Pepper over the ribs—this acts as a tenderizing agent and infuses them with flavor. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the meat is incredibly tender but still holds together.

3. Make the Sauce

While the ribs cook, combine the remaining ½ cup Dr. Pepper, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and liquid smoke in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Broil for a Caramelized Finish

Preheat the broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the ribs on top. Generously brush them with the BBQ sauce. Broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely until the edges caramelize and develop a rich, sticky glaze.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra sauce on the side and enjoy the deep, smoky-sweet flavors.

Expert Tips

• For crispier ribs, finish them on a hot grill instead of broiling.
• Use a cola substitute if you prefer a different soda profile, but Dr. Pepper’s complexity is hard to beat.
• Make ahead—the sauce can be prepared a day in advance for even richer flavors.