Dr Pepper Ribs Recipe

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Introduction

Dr Pepper Ribs are a classic twist on traditional barbecue, blending the rich savoriness of pork ribs with the sweet, slightly spiced flavor of Dr Pepper soda. This dish offers fall-off-the-bone tenderness thanks to slow cooking, then finishes with a sticky, tangy glaze that locks in flavor. Perfect for cookouts, family gatherings, or any meal where you want to impress, these ribs deliver sweet, smoky, and savory notes all in one bite.

Ingredients

  • 4.5 lbs country-style pork ribs
  • 2 (12 oz) cans Dr Pepper soda (1 can for braising, 1 can for sauce)
  • 1 ½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Pat ribs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder.

Step 2: Braise in Dr Pepper

  1. Place ribs in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
  2. Pour one 12 oz can of Dr Pepper over the ribs. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
  3. Bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours, until the ribs are tender and nearly fall apart.

Step 3: Make the Dr Pepper BBQ Glaze

  1. In a saucepan, combine the second can of Dr Pepper, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
  2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring often.
  3. Let it cook for 15–20 minutes until it thickens into a glossy glaze.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish the Ribs

  1. Remove ribs from the oven and drain excess liquid.
  2. Brush ribs generously with the Dr Pepper glaze.
  3. Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) or place ribs under the broiler.
  4. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, basting halfway through, until ribs are sticky and caramelized.

Methods

  • Oven Method (as above): Best for tender, controlled cooking.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Place ribs and 1 can Dr Pepper in slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours. Transfer to oven to glaze and caramelize.
  • Grill Finish: After braising, grill ribs over medium heat, brushing with glaze until charred and sticky.

History

The tradition of using soda in barbecue sauces goes back decades in the American South. Root beer, cola, and Dr Pepper were popular additions because of their sweetness and caramel undertones, which balance smoky meats. Dr Pepper, created in the 1880s in Texas, has 23 unique flavors, making it an excellent pairing with pork ribs for that sweet-savory harmony.

Benefits

  • Tender Meat: Slow cooking ensures juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
  • Unique Flavor: Dr Pepper adds complexity with fruity, spiced notes.
  • Customizable: Works with oven, grill, or slow cooker.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy.

Formation

  1. Season → 2. Braise → 3. Glaze → 4. Caramelize → 5. Serve hot.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: ~520
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 27g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 690mg

Lovers of this Dish

  • Barbecue enthusiasts who love experimenting with flavors.
  • Families looking for a comforting, hearty meal.
  • Sweet & savory fans who enjoy unique twists on classic recipes.
  • Texan-style BBQ lovers who appreciate Dr Pepper’s regional roots.

Conclusion

Dr Pepper Ribs are more than just another rib recipe—they’re a flavorful fusion of Southern tradition and sweet innovation. The soda tenderizes the meat while adding depth to the glaze, ensuring every bite is juicy, sticky, and finger-licking good. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a holiday dinner, or just craving something hearty, these ribs will surely become a favorite.

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