Easy 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beer Braised Pork Chops (Tender & Juicy Dinner)


 


The essentials:

  • 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

  • 1 packet dry onion soup mix

  • 1 bottle (12 oz) beer (brown ale or lager works best)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Substitution notes:
No beer? Use beef broth or apple juice. No onion soup mix? Use 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme.

Let's Make Slow Cooker Beer Braised Pork Chops (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Season the Pork

Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Place the pork chops in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the onion soup mix over the top. Pour the beer over the pork.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Gravy

If desired, thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the pork chops with the gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Tips for the Best Pork Chops

Choose bone-in chops. Bone-in are more flavorful and tender.

Don't overcook. They can be tender.

Thicken the gravy. It makes it extra satisfying.

Add vegetables. Add sliced onions, carrots, or mushrooms.

Variations to Make It Your Own

With Vegetables: Add sliced onions, carrots, or mushrooms.

With Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary.

With a Different Beer: Try a stout or a pale ale.

With Apple Juice: Use apple juice instead of beer for a sweeter flavor.

With Garlic: Add minced garlic.

What to Serve With Beer Braised Pork Chops

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Rice

  • Noodles

  • Roasted vegetables

  • A simple green salad

  • Crusty bread

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Freezer: This dish freezes well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of beer?
Yes.

Can I make this in the oven?
Yes. Braise in a Dutch oven at 325°F for 1-1½ hours.

A Final Thought

I never thought beer and pork could be such a perfect match. But the first time I made these pork chops, I was hooked. It's the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Have you ever made slow cooker pork chops? What's your favorite way to make them? Share your tips in the comments. 🍖🍺