Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these BBQ smothered pork chops will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Sticky and tender. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves BBQ pork chops.
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Budget-friendly. Pork chops and pantry staples are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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3 to 3 1/2 pounds bone-in pork chops (about 6 medium chops, 3/4- to 1-inch thick)
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2 cups bottled barbecue sauce (thick and tangy, your favorite brand)
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1 cup cola soda (not diet)
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1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
Ingredient Notes
Pork chops: Use bone-in pork chops.
Barbecue sauce: Use your favorite thick and tangy barbecue sauce.
Cola: Use regular cola, not diet.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and trim any large pieces of fat.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, cola, and brown sugar until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly spray the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
Step 4: Arrange the Pork Chops
Arrange the pork chops in the slow cooker in an even layer.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops, making sure all the meat is well coated.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork chops are very tender.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
If the sauce is thinner than you like, turn the slow cooker to HIGH, prop the lid open slightly, and cook for another 20 to 30 minutes until thick and glossy.
Step 8: Serve
Spoon the thick, sticky sauce over the pork chops and serve.
How to Serve BBQ Smothered Pork Chops
These sticky, tender pork chops are delicious on their own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
With Mashed Potatoes: The sauce is perfect over creamy potatoes.
With Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the sauce.
With Coleslaw: Cool, creamy coleslaw balances the sweetness.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Cornbread: A perfect Southern side.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Boneless Chops: Use boneless pork chops. Reduce cook time.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use spicy or honey barbecue sauce.
Make It with Different Soda: Use root beer or Dr Pepper.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Onion: Add sliced onion.
Make It with Mustard: Add a spoonful of mustard.
Make It with Hot Sauce: Add hot sauce for heat.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free barbecue sauce.
Make It in a Dutch Oven: Simmer on the stove for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Let the pork rest before serving. This keeps it tender.
Thicken the sauce at the end. This creates a sticky glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Chicken thighs or pork tenderloin can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Any barbecue sauce works.
Can I use a different soda?
Yes. Root beer or Dr Pepper can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pork released too much moisture. Thicken at the end.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add onions or peppers.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes. Reduce the cook time.
The Beauty of Slow Cooker Pork Chops
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, sticky pork chop dinner that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. These BBQ smothered pork chops are a celebration of all those things.
Keep pork chops in your freezer. Keep barbecue sauce, cola, and brown sugar in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on LOW or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH
Thickening Time: 20 to 30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours
Yield: 6 servings