Brown Sugar Pork Chops are one of my all-time favorite crockpot recipes because they are so simple. The sweetness of brown sugar paired with the savory taste of pork chops creates a balance that’s hard to resist.
The slow cooking process breaks down the fibers in the meat, making each bite juicy and tender. With just a handful of simple ingredients and your slow cooker, you’ll have an impressive dinner on the table with minimal fuss.
This dish is perfect for occasions, from a weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. The best part is, while the Crock Pot does the heavy lifting, I can focus on other tasks or relax, knowing a satisfying meal is simmering away.
In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about this family-friendly pork chop recipe. We’ll go over the ingredients and step-by-step instructions. Plus, I’ll share my top tips for getting perfectly tender pork.
Looking for more slow cooker recipes? Try my Slow Cooker Asian Spare Ribs, Cajun Chicken Pasta, or Crock Pot Pineapple Meatballs.
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🥘Ingredient Notes
For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below
- Pork chops: I like to use bone-in pork chops because they are juicier and more flavorful. You want them to be at least 1/2 inch thick. If you can’t find bone-in, don’t sweat it – boneless pork chops will work, too.
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Oil
- Garlic
- Brown sugar
🥣How to Make Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pork Chops
- Start by heating your vegetable oil in a large pan over medium to high heat.
- Season your pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides, then sear them in the pan for 2-3 minutes until they’re beautifully browned.
- Transfer the chops to your slow cooker. Now, spread that minced garlic all over the chops. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top.
- Then, all you have to do is set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 hours.
🍴Serving Ideas
One of my go-to pairings is a big mound of fluffy mashed potatoes. They’re the perfect canvas for soaking up that brown sugar sauce. Baked potatoes are another hearty choice.
Or, if you’re a fan of rice, try serving these chops over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice—the nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet pork. Homemade applesauce with a hint of cinnamon can enhance the sweetness of the pork chops.
And remember some veggies! A bright green side of steamed broccoli, buttered corn, or a crisp salad can contrast the rich pork chops. And, if you’re anything like me and love a bit of crunch, toss some air-fried Brussels sprouts into the mix.
💭How to Store
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container with any remaining sauce. That delicious brown sugar goodness will continue to flavor the pork in the fridge.
Your chops will be good in the fridge for up to four days. But can you freeze them? Absolutely! Just seal them tightly to avoid freezer burn, and they’ll be good for up to three months.
When it’s time to reheat, you can use the microwave or the oven. If you choose the oven route, set it to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Just be sure not to overheat them – we wouldn’t want to lose that tender juiciness.
⭐Tips
Be sure to check out the step by step instructions
- Thicker pork chops are better. Thin cuts will cook too quickly and may become tough.
- Are you feeling adventurous? Add about 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- I don’t recommend cooking on high, because the pork chops are more likely to become tough.
📝Reader Questions
Absolutely! While brown sugar gives a lovely depth of flavor and a hint of molasses, you can substitute it with white sugar, honey, or even maple syrup, which are each delicious in their own right. Just remember, any changes might alter the taste slightly.
I use thick-cut chops and avoid overcooking them to keep pork chops juicy and tender in a slow cooker. I also make sure to cook on low heat.
While it’s not strictly necessary to brown pork chops before placing them in the slow cooker, I recommend doing so. Browning provides a rich flavor to the meat and can enhance the final dish’s taste and appearance.
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Crock Pot Brown Sugar Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in pork chops at least 1/2 thick
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Add vegetable oil to a large skillet at medium-high heat.2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Season the pork chops with the salt and pepper on both sides and sear on both sides for 2-3 minutes or until brown.6 bone-in pork chops, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Once done, add the pork chops to the slow cooker and spread the garlic all over them. Then sprinkle the brown sugar all over the top.6 garlic cloves, 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
Notes
- Thicker pork chops are better. Thin cuts will cook too quickly and may become tough.
- Are you feeling a bit adventurous? Add about 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- While it’s not strictly necessary to brown pork chops before placing them in the slow cooker, I recommend doing so. Browning provides a rich flavor to the meat and can enhance the final dish’s taste and appearance.
- For juicy pork chops, use thick-cut chops and make sure to cook on low heat.
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Nutrition Information
Nutrition facts are estimates.
