When I need a supper that feels hearty but takes almost no hands-on work, this 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Summer Sizzler is the kind of recipe I reach for. Thick-cut bone-in pork chops turn tender in the slow cooker while a simple blend of summer-friendly pantry staples creates a savory, lightly sweet sauce that tastes like you fussed far more than you did. It is especially handy for busy family days when you want a comforting meal waiting at dinnertime.
Serve these pork chops with buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, white rice, or roasted baby potatoes to catch all that extra sauce. For something fresh on the side, corn on the cob, green beans, sliced tomatoes, or a crisp cucumber salad fit the summer feel nicely and help round out the plate.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Summer Sizzler
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 raw thick-cut bone-in pork chops
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 medium yellow onion, sliced
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a little oil if desired for easier cleanup. Lay the sliced onion across the bottom, then place the raw thick-cut bone-in pork chops on top in an even layer.
2. In a small bowl or measuring cup, stir together the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops, making sure the tops are well coated.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through. If you like, spoon some sauce over the chops once or twice during cooking.
5. Serve the pork chops hot with plenty of sauce spooned over the top and your favorite summer side dishes.
Variations & Tips
For a sweeter version: Use a honey or brown sugar style barbecue sauce for a kid-friendly finish that leans a little sweeter and caramel-like.
For extra tang: Add a small spoonful of Dijon mustard or a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce if your family likes a brighter, zippier flavor.
For picky eaters: Leave the onion in larger slices so it is easy to remove before serving, while still giving the sauce good flavor as it cooks.
For thicker sauce: If you want a richer sauce at the end, remove the cooked pork chops and simmer the liquid in a saucepan for a few minutes until slightly reduced.
For best results: Thick-cut bone-in pork chops hold up especially well in the slow cooker. Try to avoid very thin chops here, since they can cook too quickly and won’t stay as juicy.