Slow Cooker Pork Chops

There’s something comforting about pork chops slowly simmering all afternoon, filling the kitchen with a sweet, savory aroma that promises a good supper ahead. This old fashioned slow cooker pork chops recipe is the kind of dinner that feels familiar and dependable.

The pork cooks until melt in your mouth tender while the Dr Pepper turns into a rich, glossy glaze with just the right balance of sweetness and tang. Paired with onions and a simple pantry sauce, it is the kind of meal that feels cozy without being complicated.

It reminds me of the way Grandma loved recipes that used simple ingredients and let time do the work.

What You Need to Know

• These pork chops cook until fork tender and juicy
• Regular Dr Pepper works best to create the caramelized glaze
• The sauce thickens at the end into a rich, spoonable finish
• Perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles

Ingredients Overview

• Boneless pork chops: Cook evenly and stay tender in the slow cooker
• Onion and garlic: Add savory depth to the sauce
• Dr Pepper: Creates a sweet, caramelized glaze as it cooks
• Barbecue sauce: Adds smoky richness and balance
• Brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the glaze
• Worcestershire sauce and vinegar: Add tang and depth
• Seasonings: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper round out the flavor
• Cornstarch slurry: Thickens the sauce at the end
• Parsley: A simple garnish that brightens the dish

How to Make Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Step 1: Place the pork chops in a single layer in the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt and black pepper, then top with the sliced onion and minced garlic.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dr Pepper, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until smooth.

Step 3: Pour the sauce evenly over the pork chops. Cover and cook on Low for 6 hours or on High for 3 hours, until the pork is fork tender.

Step 4: In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Stir it into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on High for another 15 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.

Step 5: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve the pork chops with the thickened sauce spooned over the top.

Grandma’s Tips

• Use regular soda, not diet, so the sauce thickens properly
• Boneless chops cook more evenly, but bone in works with slightly longer cook time

Modern Updates

• Swap Dr Pepper for cola or root beer for a different flavor twist
• Use the sauce with chicken breasts or thighs for an easy variation

More Easy Slow Cooker Recipes

• Easy Slow Cooker Spareribs
• Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
• Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice
• Slow Cooker Beef Stew

FAQs

Do pork chops dry out in the slow cooker?

When cooked with enough liquid and sauce, pork chops stay moist and become very tender.

Why use regular Dr Pepper instead of diet?

Regular Dr Pepper contains sugar that helps the sauce caramelize and thicken properly. Diet soda will not give the same result.

How long do slow cooker pork chops last in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, slow cooker pork chops will keep for up to 4 days and reheat well.