Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Chops

Tender, juicy pork chops slow-cooked in a rich, smoky, sweet, and tangy barbecue sauce. This easy crockpot recipe is full of flavor, requires minimal preparation, and makes a perfect family dinner.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 4–6 hours | Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

• 4–6 bone-in pork chops

• 1 cup BBQ sauce

• ½ cup beef or chicken broth

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt, or to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the pork chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Sear the pork chops

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the BBQ sauce

In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Add to the slow cooker

Arrange the pork chops in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared BBQ sauce evenly over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated.

Step 5: Slow cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the pork chops are tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking, as pork chops can become dry.

Step 6: Thicken the sauce

If you prefer a thicker BBQ sauce, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully thicken it with a cornstarch slurry.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon the rich BBQ sauce over the pork chops. Serve warm with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or dinner rolls.

Cooking Tips

• Choose bone-in pork chops for added flavor, or use thick-cut boneless chops.

• Searing is optional but gives the pork a delicious browned exterior.

• Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether smoky, sweet, spicy, or tangy.

• Avoid cooking pork chops for too long, as they can dry out.

• Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part reaches 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest.

Serving Suggestions

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Steamed green beans

• Roasted carrots

• Buttered corn

• Fluffy white rice

• Coleslaw

• Warm dinner rolls

Nutrition Information

Approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings.

Nutrition values vary depending on the pork chops, BBQ sauce, and portion size.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container with the sauce for 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a little broth or sauce, or microwave until thoroughly hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops work well. Since they can cook faster, check their internal temperature early to prevent them from drying out.

2. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce makes this recipe quick and convenient.

3. Can I make this recipe without brown sugar?

Yes. You can leave out the brown sugar or replace it with a little extra honey if you prefer.

4. Why are my pork chops dry?

Pork chops can become dry if they are cooked for too long. Use a meat thermometer and remove them from the heat once they reach 145°F (63°C), then let them rest for 3 minutes.

5. Can I prepare the pork chops ahead of time?

Yes. Season the pork chops and mix the sauce a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them in the slow cooker just before cooking.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Chops are tender, juicy, and coated in a delicious sweet and smoky barbecue sauce. With simple ingredients and very little hands-on preparation, they’re ideal for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or family gatherings. Serve them with your favorite sides for a comforting homemade meal.