Just six ingredients come together to create flavorful, Asian-inspired slow cooker teriyaki ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender and tangy smooth. This low-prep recipe allows you to set it and forget about it until mealtime, making it ideal for busy weekends or weeknights.

Pork ribs have long been a classic American food, which is why you can find so many recipe combinations for them. Using a sweet and tangy sauce like teriyaki, these teriyaki pork ribs do not disappoint. Not to mention, all the ingredients are easy to find and most likely already in your pantry.

Recipe Ingredients

• Pork Ribs: baby back ribs are smaller and can easily fit into the crockpot (when cut in half); they are also leaner and more tender than other cuts.
• Teriyaki Sauce: the highlight of the recipe, this sauce is a combination of sweet and tangy thanks to its soy sauce and mirin base. I use Kikkoman Original Teriyaki Sauce.
• Barbecue Sauce: adds a smokey barbecue flavor that blends well with the teriyaki sauce.
• Red Wine Vinegar: an acidic base that levels all combined flavors.
• Garlic: minced to add the perfect touch of flavor.
• Seasoning: salt and pepper top off the overall dish adding the perfect balance of taste.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step One – Remove the thin membrane from the back of the pork ribs.

Step Two – Add the ribs (cut in half) to the crockpot. Brush with half of the teriyaki sauce (saving the other half for later). Sprinkle the ribs with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 hours.

Step Three – After 7 hours, add the remaining teriyaki sauce, barbecue sauce, garlic, and red wine vinegar to the sauce that is still in the slow cooker. Cook for an hour longer.

Step Four – Before serving, brush with the teriyaki sauce that is in the crockpot and top with chopped green onion (optional).

How to Serve

• Sides: Coleslaw, baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and/or salad (fresh greens, macaroni, or pasta) are all great side ideas for pairing with slow cooker ribs.
• Toppings: In addition to the chives or chopped green onion, sprinkle the top with sesame seeds, extra teriyaki glaze, or even a drizzle of honey.
• On the Bone: This is the most traditional way to eat ribs but can sometimes get a little messy.
• Off the Bone: Forking the meat off the bone can make the ribs easier to eat and give you meat to make a sandwich.

Variations

• Substitute teriyaki sauce: You can use your favorite sauce in replacement of the teriyaki sauce but it will yield a different flavor.
• Use a different vinegar: Instead of red wine vinegar, try balsamic vinegar.
• Try a different barbeque sauce: With there being a variety of flavors, try something other than the regular BBQ flavor.

Recipe FAQs

Want to make more magic in your crockpot? Stay up to date and subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Tik Tok, and YouTube.

More Slow Cooker Rib Recipe Ideas:

• Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Country Style Ribs
• Slow Cooker Ribs, Potatoes and Sauerkraut
• Slow Cooker Louisiana Ribs {Cajun-Style}
• Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper Ribs