Juicy Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Chops
There’s something magical about coming home to the aroma of tender, fall-apart pork chops simmered in a rich barbecue sauce. This slow cooker BBQ pork chops recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The low and slow cooking method ensures the meat stays incredibly juicy while absorbing all the smoky, tangy flavors.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 medium onion, sliced
Instructions
- Place sliced onions on the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Arrange pork chops on top of the onions in a single layer.
- In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt.
- Pour the sauce over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove pork chops and serve with the sauce spooned over top.
Practical Tips
Tip 1: Extra Caramelization For a restaurant-style finish, transfer the cooked pork chops to a baking sheet, brush with additional sauce, and broil for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This creates a delicious caramelized crust.
Tip 2: Sauce Consistency If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Tip 3: Bone-In Advantage Using bone-in pork chops adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat moist throughout the cooking process, so avoid boneless cuts for this recipe.
How to Store
Let the pork chops cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container with the sauce. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the slow cooker on low or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops? While you can use boneless chops, bone-in varieties are recommended because they stay juicier and more flavorful during the long cooking time.
What should I serve with these pork chops? These pair wonderfully with coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and cook them in a larger slow cooker, though you may need to add 1 to 2 hours to the cooking time depending on your cooker’s size.