Slow Cooker Creamy Country-Style Ribs Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning when layering the ingredients. This adds a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream cheese and parmesan sauce.

If you prefer a brighter finish, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of chopped fresh basil stirred in right before serving can add a wonderful freshness to the dish.

If you find the sauce is thicker than desired, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of warm chicken broth or even a splash of heavy cream. Conversely, if the sauce is too thin, you can remove the ribs and cook the sauce on the high setting with the lid off for a few minutes to allow it to reduce and reach your preferred consistency.

Variations

• Spicy Country-Style Ribs: Add two tablespoons of crushed red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper during the assembly phase to give the dish a spicy, bold kick that cuts through the creaminess.
• Herb-Infused Ribs: Incorporate two tablespoons of fresh chopped rosemary and thyme along with the sun-dried tomatoes to add an earthy, aromatic depth to the pork and the creamy sauce.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen the sauce until heated through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Ensure the food has cooled to room temperature, but do not leave it out for more than two hours. Proper storage will keep the sauce from separating and ensure the meat remains as tender as possible when reheated. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness for optimal quality over the next few days.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors continue to develop after a day or two in the refrigerator. You can prepare the entire recipe and store it, or prepare the sauce separately and reheat it with the pork when ready to eat.

Reheating slowly ensures the sauce maintains its creamy texture, making it a convenient option for meal planning throughout the week.

Serving ideas

Serve these ribs over a bed of creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or cooked pasta to soak up the delicious parmesan sauce. The neutral base of these sides allows the complex, savory flavors of the pork and sun-dried tomatoes to take center stage.

A simple side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

For an elegant presentation, garnish the plated ribs with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an extra dusting of parmesan cheese. The vibrant green color of the herbs makes the plate look professional and inviting.

Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy to ensure the best eating experience for your guests or family members, and keep extra sauce on the side for those who want more.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Creamy Country-Style Ribs

Prep 5 minCook 6 hRest 5 minTotal 6 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 8 boneless country-style pork ribs
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Keep the raw pork refrigerated until ready to assemble, keeping it out of the refrigerator for at most 30 minutes before cooking. Arrange the boneless country-style pork ribs in the ceramic insert of your slow cooker. Scatter the sun-dried tomatoes and freshly grated parmesan cheese over the ribs. Place the block of cream cheese in the center, then pour the chicken broth around the edges.
2. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The ribs are finished when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the ribs from the slow cooker and let them rest on a plate for at least 3 minutes before serving.
3. Once the ribs are cooked and have rested, stir the sauce in the slow cooker until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and smooth. Serve the ribs topped with the creamy sauce. If there are leftovers, cool them within 2 hours before refrigerating.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

650

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

52 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.