My brother begs me to make these every weekend because they are so tender and take 3 ingredients

Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient BBQ Country Style Ribs

Some recipes become regular weekend requests because they are simple, reliable, and satisfying. These slow-cooker BBQ country-style ribs fall into that category. With just three main ingredients and minimal preparation, they turn into a tender, flavorful meal that feels like comfort food without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Many busy households look for meals that are easy to prepare ahead of time and cook while other tasks get done. A slow cooker recipe like this allows you to start dinner in the morning and come back later to a fully cooked meal. That convenience is one reason these ribs have become a popular choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, and game-day meals.

This recipe works especially well because country-style pork ribs contain enough marbling to stay moist during slow cooking. Over several hours, the meat gradually softens and absorbs the flavor of the barbecue sauce, creating a rich and balanced taste. The result is tender meat that pulls apart easily with a fork.

Short ingredient lists can be appealing because they keep preparation simple and predictable. In this case, pork ribs, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar combine to create a sweet and savory flavor that appeals to a wide range of tastes. The slow cooker handles most of the work, making this a practical option even on busy days.

Why Slow Cooking Works So Well for Pork Ribs

Country-style ribs come from the shoulder area of the pig. This cut contains connective tissue that becomes softer during long, gentle cooking. Slow cooking helps break down these fibers gradually, which supports a more tender texture compared to faster cooking methods.

Moist heat inside the slow cooker also helps keep the ribs from drying out. The sauce and natural juices from the meat create a steady cooking environment that allows flavors to develop slowly.

Because the temperature remains low and consistent, the ribs cook evenly with little attention required. This makes slow cooker ribs a dependable option for home cooks who want consistent results.

Ingredients

Serves about 6 people

• 4–5 pounds bone-in country-style pork ribs
• 1 bottle (18–20 ounces) thick barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

Optional for serving:

• Extra barbecue sauce

Step-by-Step Preparation

Lightly pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the sauce cling better during cooking. Trim large pieces of visible fat if desired.

Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick spray or use a liner for easier cleanup.

In a small bowl, mix the barbecue sauce and brown sugar until well combined. This mixture forms the base flavor for the ribs.

Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps prevent sticking.

Place the ribs inside in a mostly even layer. Slight overlap is fine, but avoid stacking too tightly if possible.

Pour the remaining sauce over the ribs. Turn the ribs with tongs to coat all sides evenly.

Cover with the lid and cook:

• LOW: 7–8 hours
• HIGH: 3½–4 hours

The ribs are ready when they are tender and pull apart easily with a fork.

For a thicker, slightly caramelized finish, the ribs can be briefly broiled after slow cooking.

Preheat the broiler and line a baking sheet with foil.

Transfer the ribs to the sheet and brush with extra sauce from the slow cooker.

Broil for 3–5 minutes until the edges begin to brown slightly. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving.

These ribs can be served on a plate with traditional sides or placed into sandwich buns for a casual meal.

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