Are you craving a juicy, tender, and flavorful pork chop dinner but short on time? Look no further! This recipe for BBQ Pork Chops in the slow cooker delivers fall-off-the-bone deliciousness with minimal effort. It's a perfect example of healthy meals made easy, ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking at its finest! This easy recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (we recommend a smoky variety!)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Pat them down lightly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them brown nicely.
Slow Cooker Magic:
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
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Place the seared pork chops in your slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chops, ensuring they are fully coated.
Cooking Time:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are fork-tender and easily shred. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions:
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve them on their own, or with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops for even cooking.
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in pork chops retain more moisture during cooking, resulting in a more tender final product.
- Adjust the BBQ sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors to find your perfect match.
- Thicker chops: For thicker pork chops, you may need to increase the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.
Variations:
- Spicy BBQ Pork Chops: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Apple BBQ Pork Chops: Add 1/2 cup of diced apples to the slow cooker along with the pork chops and BBQ sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- Honey Garlic BBQ Pork Chops: Replace the brown sugar with honey and add 2 cloves of minced garlic for a sweet and garlicky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 35-45g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This recipe offers a delightful balance of deliciousness and ease. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, these BBQ Pork Chop Crock Pot Recipes are sure to impress. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal – perfect for weeknight dinners or casual weekend gatherings. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes and a testament to the convenience of easy recipes.