Imagine a dinner so delicious that it'll have your family begging for seconds before they've even finished their first bite! These Crockpot Coca-Cola Pork Chops are about to revolutionize your meal prep, transforming ordinary pork chops into a succulent, fall-apart tender masterpiece that combines the unexpected magic of soda and barbecue sauce. Get ready to discover a recipe that's so easy, it practically cooks itself, and so flavorful, it'll become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 can (12 oz.) Coca Cola
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pork chops by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes better browning.
- Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, you can also add garlic powder or your favorite dried herbs.
- Slice the onion into thin rings or half-moon shapes. These will add depth of flavor and help keep the pork chops moist during slow cooking.
- Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease with oil to prevent sticking.
- Layer the sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot to create a flavorful base for the pork chops.
- Arrange the seasoned pork chops on top of the onion layer, ensuring they are not overlapping too much.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Coca Cola and barbecue sauce until well combined. The soda will help tenderize the meat while adding a subtle sweetness.
- Pour the Coca Cola and barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops, making sure they are mostly covered.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and absorb the flavors.
- After 6 hours, carefully remove the pork chops and transfer to a serving platter. The meat should be so tender it nearly falls apart.
- Optional: If desired, strain the remaining liquid and reduce it in a saucepan to create a thicker sauce for drizzling over the pork chops.
- Serve hot, garnished with the cooked onions and a side of your choice such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for bone-in pork chops for maximum flavor and tenderness. Thick-cut chops (about 1-inch thick) work best for slow cooking.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Browning: Always pat your pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure better flavor absorption and potential browning.
- Don't Overcrowd: Arrange pork chops in a single layer with minimal overlap to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.
- Sauce Secret: The Coca-Cola acts as a natural tenderizer, breaking down the meat's proteins while adding a subtle sweetness. Don't skip this magical ingredient!
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Six hours on low heat ensures melt-in-your-mouth results.
- Sauce Thickening Trick: If you want a thicker sauce, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and reduce it on the stovetop for a few minutes before serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors will continue to develop.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 144kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg
