When I need a no-fuss holiday weekend dinner that still feels like a real treat, this 4-ingredient slow cooker pork rib recipe is exactly the kind of meal I reach for. Country-style pork ribs turn wonderfully tender with very little effort, and pairing them with a few pantry staples makes this a practical choice for a busy Labor Day kickoff. It has that comforting, barbecue-style flavor people love, but without standing over a grill all afternoon.
Serve these tender pork ribs with classic cookout sides like coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, corn on the cob, or mac and cheese. If you want to keep things simple, spoon the extra sauce over mashed potatoes or pile the shredded meat onto sandwich buns with pickles for an easy crowd-pleasing meal.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Labor Day Kickoff
Servings: 6
Ingredients
3 pounds raw country-style pork ribs
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick spray if desired, then arrange the raw country-style pork ribs in an even layer in the bottom.
2. In a small bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the ribs, turning the pieces a little if needed so they are well coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is very tender and cooked through.
5. Serve the ribs whole with extra sauce spooned over the top, or shred the meat slightly for sandwiches or bowls.
Variations & Tips
Make it sweeter: If your family likes a sweeter barbecue flavor, use a honey-style barbecue sauce. It gives the ribs a slightly stickier finish that works really well for sandwiches.
Add a little heat: Stir a pinch of crushed red pepper or a spoonful of hot sauce into the sauce mixture if you want a spicier version. It is an easy way to wake up the flavor without adding extra work.
For easier cleanup: Slow cooker liners can be a lifesaver on busy weekends. I especially like using them when I know the sauce will cook down and cling to the sides.
Serve a crowd: If you are feeding a group, keep the finished ribs warm in the slow cooker on the warm setting and set out buns, pickles, and simple sides so everyone can build their own plate.
Store and reheat: Leftover pork keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently with a little extra sauce so it stays moist and tender.