Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches Recipe

Indulge in the savory and smoky flavor of a classic fast food inspired delicacy, the slow cooker McRib Sandwich. This recipe uses slow-cooked baby back ribs lathered in homemade McDonald's-inspired BBQ sauce, served on a toasted hoagie roll with pickles and onions. Bring the taste of the iconic McRib to your kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Photos of Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches Recipe

Most ingredients in this recipe are common pantry items like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and various spices. However, liquid smoke might be a new ingredient for some. It's a condiment that imparts a smoky flavor to food and can usually be found in the condiment or barbecue supplies aisle in most supermarkets. Another ingredient to note is baby back ribs - ensure you're picking up the correct cut of meat. Hoagie rolls, a type of soft white bread roll, can be found in the bakery section.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

Baby back ribs: The star of the show, these ribs are slow cooked until tender and then slathered in the homemade BBQ sauce.

Ketchup: Forms the base for the homemade BBQ sauce.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds tanginess to the BBQ sauce.

Light brown sugar: Imparts sweetness to balance out the tang and spice in the BBQ sauce.

Yellow mustard: Another key flavor component of the BBQ sauce.

Onion powder and Garlic powder: These add savory depth to the BBQ sauce.

Liquid smoke: Gives the BBQ sauce its smoky flavor.

Cayenne pepper and Smoked paprika: These spices add heat and smokiness to the BBQ sauce.

Hoagie rolls: The vessel for our McRib sandwich.

Unsalted butter: Used to toast the hoagie rolls.

Pickles: Add a tangy crunch to the sandwich.

Chopped onions: Adds a sharp, fresh component to cut through the rich BBQ ribs.

One reader, Carly Marquez says:

This slow cooker McRib sandwiches recipe is a game-changer! The ribs come out so tender and flavorful, and the homemade BBQ sauce is a total winner. The whole family loved it, and it was so easy to make. Definitely a new favorite in our household!

Carly Marquez

Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

How to cook the ribs in the slow cooker: Place the ribs in the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

How to make the McDonald's BBQ sauce: In a saucepan, combine ketchup, water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, yellow mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, liquid smoke, cayenne pepper, and sweet smoked paprika. Simmer on low heat for 15 to 18 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat a spoon and leaves a line when a finger is swiped across the spoon.

How to broil the ribs: After the ribs are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and place them on a sheet pan. Cover the ribs with the prepared BBQ sauce and broil for 1 to 2 minutes on the top shelf of the oven until the sauce caramelizes slightly.

How to assemble the sandwiches: Spread butter on the hoagie rolls and toast them. Slide the bones out of the ribs, then place a portion of the ribs on each hoagie roll. Top each sandwich with three pickles and a sprinkling of chopped onions.

How To Make Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

These McRib sandwiches take inspiration from McDonald’s classic barbecue sauce, which is slathered on slow-cooked baby back ribs and served with pickles.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 7 hours

Total: 7 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Ribs:

1rackof baby back ribs,cut in half to fit the slow cooker
½tspsalt
¼tspblack pepper

For McDonalds BBQ Sauce:

1cupketchup
¼cupwater
¼cupapple cider vinegar
2tbsplight brown sugar
1½tbspyellow mustard
1½tbsponion powder
1½tbspgarlic powder
1tbspliquid smoke
1½tspcayenne pepper
1tspsweet smoked paprika

For Assembly:

4hoagie rolls
2tbspof unsalted butter
12pickles
½cupchopped onions,in a large 1-inch dice

Instructions

Put the ribs in the slow cooker and top with salt and pepper.
Cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours.
While the ribs are cooking, make the bbq sauce.
Add the McDonalds BBQ Sauce ingredients into a saucepan and cook on Low for 15 to 18 minutes or until sauce is thickened enough to coat a spoon and leave a line when a finger is swiped across the spoon.
When ribs are done remove them from the slow cooker and put them onto a sheet pan.
Cover with bbq sauce.
Broil for 1 to 2 minutes on the top shelf of the oven.
Spread butter on hoagie rolls and toast.
Slide the bones out of the ribs (they should come right out with a little twisting).
Use ¼ of the ribs on each hoagie, then top each one with three pickles and a sprinkling of onion.

Nutrition

Calories: 873.47kcal
Fat: 51.64g
Saturated Fat: 19.58g
Trans Fat: 0.61g
Monounsaturated Fat: 20.79g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.89g
Carbohydrates: 47.81g
Fiber: 3.12g
Sugar: 18.63g
Protein: 56.51g
Cholesterol: 200.01mg
Sodium: 1068.73mg
Calcium: 157.85mg
Potassium: 1027.96mg
Iron: 3.97mg
Vitamin A: 111.46µg
Vitamin C: 5.13mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

When preparing the baby back ribs in the slow cooker, it's important to remember not to add any liquid. The ribs will release their own juices as they cook, which will provide enough moisture for them to become tender and flavorful. Adding extra liquid can dilute the flavor and make the ribs too soft. Also, when applying the bbq sauce, make sure to apply it generously and evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Lastly, when toasting the hoagie rolls, keep a close eye on them as they can easily burn. A lightly toasted roll provides a nice contrast to the tender, saucy ribs.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

Prep ahead: Prepare the BBQ sauce and marinate the ribs the night before. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a store-bought BBQ sauce: If you're short on time, you can use a high-quality store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making it from scratch.

Slow cooker liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and less time spent scrubbing the slow cooker.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches Recipe

baby back ribs - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that works well in slow-cooked recipes, providing a similar texture and succulent taste.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a base for the BBQ sauce, providing a rich and savory flavor without the sweetness of ketchup.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar offers a milder acidity and a slightly fruity flavor, which can complement the other ingredients in the BBQ sauce.
light brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness to the BBQ sauce while also providing a hint of floral flavor.
yellow mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard offers a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, enhancing the complexity of the BBQ sauce.
liquid smoke - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a smoky flavor to the BBQ sauce, mimicking the essence of liquid smoke.
hoagie rolls - Substitute with ciabatta bread: Ciabatta bread provides a sturdy and crusty base for the sandwich, holding up well to the saucy filling.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to brush the bread for toasting, adding a light and savory touch without the need for butter.
pickles - Substitute with bread and butter pickles: Bread and butter pickles offer a slightly sweeter and tangier flavor, complementing the BBQ sauce and adding a unique twist to the sandwich.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder and slightly sweet flavor, adding depth to the sandwich without overpowering the other ingredients.

Presenting Your Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker McRib sandwiches, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Ensure that the sandwich is neatly arranged and the pickles and onions are strategically placed for a balanced and appetizing presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating a delicate drizzle of the McDonald's BBQ sauce around the plate. This not only adds a pop of color but also showcases the attention to detail in the presentation.
Utilize garnishes: Elevate the dish by incorporating edible garnishes such as microgreens or finely chopped herbs to add a touch of freshness and sophistication to the overall presentation.
Focus on symmetry and balance: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate to ensure symmetry and balance. This meticulous approach demonstrates precision and care in the presentation of the slow cooker McRib sandwiches.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the McRib sandwiches to stand out as the focal point. Opt for a minimalist yet elegant plate to showcase the culinary craftsmanship.
Highlight the textures: Emphasize the textures of the dish by ensuring that the toasted hoagie rolls are positioned to display their golden, crispy exterior, creating an enticing visual and textural contrast.
Emphasize the bone removal: Showcase the expertise by presenting the McRib sandwiches with the bones elegantly removed, demonstrating the culinary finesse and attention to detail in the preparation.
Attention to detail in plating: Pay close attention to the finer details, such as wiping any smudges or spills on the plate, to ensure a flawless and professional presentation that aligns with the standards of a Michelin-starred culinary experience.

Essential Tools for Making McRib Sandwiches in a Slow Cooker

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures. It's perfect for slowly cooking the ribs to tender perfection.
Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for making the McDonald's BBQ sauce. It allows for even heating and easy stirring.
Sheet pan: A sheet pan is a flat, rectangular metal pan used for roasting or broiling the ribs. It provides a large surface area for even cooking.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for roasting and baking. It's used to broil the ribs after they are coated with BBQ sauce.
Spoon: A spoon is used for stirring and tasting the BBQ sauce while it's being cooked in the saucepan.
Knife: A knife is used for slicing the rack of ribs and for chopping the onions for assembly.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for cutting and preparing the ribs and onions.
Broiler: The broiler in the oven is used to quickly cook and caramelize the BBQ sauce on the ribs.
Toaster: A toaster is used to toast the hoagie rolls before assembling the sandwiches.

Storing and Freezing Your Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

To store leftover McRib sandwiches, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the McRib sandwiches. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen McRib sandwiches, remove the desired number of sandwiches from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, unwrap the sandwiches and place them on a baking sheet. Cover the sandwiches loosely with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed sandwiches in the microwave. Place the unwrapped sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The time may vary depending on your microwave's wattage.
If you have leftover barbecue sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the sauce in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Once frozen, transfer the sauce cubes to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Frozen barbecue sauce will keep for up to 3 months.

How To Reheat Leftover Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

To reheat leftover slow cooker McRib sandwiches, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the sandwich warms through evenly without drying out the meat or making the bun too crispy.
Wrap each sandwich individually in aluminum foil. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the sandwich from drying out during the reheating process. The foil also helps to keep the sandwich together, ensuring that the toppings and sauce don't fall out.
Place the wrapped sandwiches on a baking sheet and put them in the preheated oven. Depending on the size of your sandwiches and how cold they were to begin with, reheating time may vary. As a general rule, it takes about 15-20 minutes to reheat a refrigerated sandwich and 20-25 minutes for a frozen one.
If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior on your bun, unwrap the sandwich for the last 5 minutes of reheating. This will allow the bread to toast slightly, giving it a nice texture and helping to revive any toppings that may have gotten soggy during storage.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use a microwave. Wrap the sandwich in a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out, and microwave it on high for 1-2 minutes, depending on the power of your microwave and the size of the sandwich. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer bun compared to oven reheating.
If you have access to a toaster oven, this can be a great compromise between the oven and microwave methods. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the sandwich in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method can help to crisp up the bun while still keeping the meat and toppings warm and moist.

Interesting Trivia About Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

The McRib sandwich was first introduced by McDonald's in 1981 and has since become a popular limited-time menu item. It is known for its unique boneless pork patty, tangy barbecue sauce, pickles, and onions, all served on a hoagie roll. The sandwich has gained a cult following and is eagerly anticipated by fans when it makes its occasional return to the menu.

Is Making McRib Sandwiches in a Slow Cooker Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker McRib sandwiches recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as baby back ribs, ketchup, and spices, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches Healthy or Unhealthy?

This slow cooker McRib sandwich recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sodium content from the salt, ketchup, and mustard
Significant amount of added sugars from the brown sugar and ketchup
Saturated fat from the ribs and butter
Processed ingredients like liquid smoke and hoagie rolls

However, there are some redeeming qualities, such as the use of onions and pickles, which provide some vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin, instead of baby back ribs
Reduce the amount of salt and sugar in the BBQ sauce, or opt for a low-sodium, low-sugar alternative
Replace the hoagie rolls with whole wheat buns for added fiber
Increase the amount of onions and pickles, or add other vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes
Use a healthier fat, such as olive oil, instead of butter for toasting the buns

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the flavors of a McRib sandwich while reducing the overall calorie, fat, and sodium content. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables and whole grains will provide a boost of nutrients and fiber, making this a more well-rounded meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches Recipe

This slow cooker McRib sandwich recipe is a delightful twist on the classic fast food favorite. The slow-cooked baby back ribs are tender and flavorful, and the homemade McDonald's-inspired BBQ sauce adds a tangy and smoky kick. The assembly with butter-toasted hoagie rolls, pickles, and onions creates a satisfying and indulgent sandwich experience. It's a fun and delicious way to enjoy a homemade version of a beloved fast food item.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn on the cob, grilled to perfection and slathered with a savory herb butter.

Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing, mixed with shredded carrots and purple cabbage for a pop of color.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love McRib Sandwiches

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich and flavorful broth.

Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan: Enjoy a healthier version of this classic Italian dish with crispy baked chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

Refreshing Watermelon Salad: Combine juicy watermelon, feta cheese, mint, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing and light summer salad.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in a creamy and comforting mushroom risotto made with Arborio rice, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese.

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake: Treat yourself to a decadent and gooey chocolate lava cake that oozes with rich chocolatey goodness when you dig into it.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these delectable bite-sized treats filled with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and satisfying filling, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with these crispy, golden-brown coconut shrimp. The crunchy coating gives way to succulent, juicy shrimp, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Serve with a zesty dipping sauce for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this warm and gooey dessert. The outer layer is perfectly baked, while the inside oozes with a molten chocolate center. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with this classic dessert. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers are sandwiched between a creamy mascarpone mixture, then dusted with cocoa powder for a touch of bitterness. The result is a luscious and elegant treat that is sure to impress your guests.

Why trust this Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted and authentic rendition of the beloved McRib sandwich. The slow cooking process ensures tender, flavorful ribs, while the homemade McDonald's BBQ sauce adds a touch of nostalgia. The combination of ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and liquid smoke creates a rich and smoky flavor profile. The attention to detail in the bbq sauce preparation guarantees a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. With meticulous steps and quality ingredients like baby back ribs and sweet smoked paprika, this recipe promises an authentic McRib experience that users can trust and enjoy.

Want to share your experience making these Slow Cooker McRib Sandwiches or discuss the recipe further? Head over to our Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use a different cut of ribs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the cut of ribs you choose.

Can I make the BBQ sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the BBQ sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before using it on the ribs.

Can I skip the broiling step at the end?

While broiling gives the ribs a nice caramelized finish, you can skip this step if you prefer. The ribs will still be delicious with just the slow cooking and sauce.

Can I add more spices to the BBQ sauce for extra flavor?

Of course! Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. You can add more cayenne pepper for heat or a touch of honey for sweetness.

Can I use a different type of bread for the sandwiches?

Yes, you can use any type of bread or bun you like. The ribs and BBQ sauce will taste great on a variety of bread options.