Cooking frozen boneless pork ribs in a crockpot may seem challenging, but it’s actually quite simple. With the right techniques, your frozen ribs can become succulent and flavorful with ease. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to transform frozen boneless ribs into a mouthwatering family meal using a crockpot.
Why Choose Frozen Boneless Pork Ribs?
Opting for frozen boneless pork ribs offers several advantages:
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Convenience – Frozen ribs are pre-portioned and ready to cook whenever you need a quick dinner. No tedious prep work.
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Uniform pieces – Frozen ribs will all be around the same size and thickness compared to fresh ribs of varying sizes. This allows for even cooking.
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Cost-effective – Buying frozen ribs in bulk when they’re on sale saves money compared to fresh rib prices.
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Long shelf life – Frozen ribs stay fresh for 6-12 months in the freezer, reducing waste.
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Easy storage – Stackable frozen ribs take up less space compared to awkwardly shaped fresh ribs,
How to Cook Frozen Ribs in a Crockpot
Cooking frozen boneless ribs in a crockpot is an easy, mostly hands-off process. Follow these steps
1. Prepare the Crockpot
Spray your crockpot with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. If your crockpot doesn’t have a removable insert, place a liner inside for easy cleanup.
2. Add Seasonings (Optional)
Season ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, brown sugar, or your favorite rub. This adds flavor as the ribs cook.
3. Place the Ribs in the Crockpot
Add ribs in a single layer, avoiding overlap for even cooking. Pour 1/2 cup broth, barbecue sauce, or water in the bottom to help steam and tenderize the meat.
4. Cook on Low
Cover and cook for 7-8 hours on low until ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender. For frozen ribs, cook 8-10 hours.
5. Remove Bones (Optional)
Use tongs and a fork to remove bones if desired. The meat should slide right off.
6. Shred and Serve
Shred ribs with two forks. Toss with your favorite barbecue sauce and serve on buns for amazing sandwiches.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
Follow these useful tips:
- For maximum flavor, thaw ribs overnight in fridge before cooking.
- Sprinkle rub generously over both sides before cooking.
- Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, or Italian seasoning to rub.
- Halfway through, flip and baste ribs with more sauce to prevent drying out.
- Garnish with pickles, slaw, onion rings, or cheese for delicious plates.
- Let cooked ribs rest in juices for 10 minutes before removing bones or shredding.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Pulled Pork
Leftover crockpot pulled pork ribs make amazing:
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BBQ Pork Nachos – Pile pulled pork over corn chips with cheese, beans, salsa and more.
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Pulled Pork Pizza – Top pizza crust with shredded pork, onions, pineapple and cilantro.
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Pulled Pork Tacos – Stuff warm tortillas with pork, avocado, coleslaw and queso fresco.
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Pulled Pork Salad – Toss pork with mixed greens, apples, feta and candied walnuts.
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Pulled Pork Omelets – Whip up omelets with pork, peppers, onions and cheese for breakfast.
So don’t let a pack of frozen boneless ribs intimidate you – toss them in the crockpot and you’ll have mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone ribs in no time at all. Experiment with different seasonings and bbq sauces until you find your family’s favorite.
Crock pot Country Style Pork Ribs
FAQ
Can I put frozen ribs in the crockpot?
Can you put frozen pork in a crock pot?
What is the best way to cook frozen pork ribs?
How do you keep boneless ribs from drying out in a crock pot?