Slow Cooker Cherry Soda Pork Chops Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can briefly sear the pork slices in a hot pan before placing them in the slow cooker, although this is optional. This step adds a layer of complexity to the meat but is not required for a tender result. If you choose to sear, ensure the pan is very hot and the pork is patted dry to achieve a quick, golden-brown crust before moving it to the slow cooker insert.

The sauce can be customized by adding a pinch of salt or pepper to taste, though the natural flavors of the soda and onions are usually sufficient. If you prefer a more pronounced onion flavor, you can thinly slice the onions rather than keeping them in rings.

Experimenting with different types of onions, such as red or sweet varieties, can also provide subtle variations in the final sweetness and color of the sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Cherry Pork: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker to provide a spicy contrast to the sweetness of the cherry soda.
• Savory Herb Infusion: Incorporate a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme during the cooking process to add an earthy, aromatic dimension that complements the pork and the sweet glaze.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool to room temperature within 2 hours before refrigerating.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or in a pan over low heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the pork is cooled to room temperature within two hours of cooking before placing it in the fridge to maintain food safety. When reheating, add a small splash of water or broth to the container to prevent the meat from drying out, and heat gently until the pork is warmed through to the center.

This dish is perfect for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator for a day. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before and keep it in the refrigerator, then simply place it in the base and start the cooking process in the morning.

This preparation method saves significant time and allows the pork to marinate slightly in the soda before the heat is applied.

Serving ideas

Serve the pork chops over a bed of fluffy white rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious cherry soda glaze. The mild starch helps balance the sweetness of the sauce, creating a well-rounded meal.

A side of steamed green vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, adds a necessary crunch and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the tender, slow-cooked pork and the rich, syrupy consistency of the onion-infused sauce.

For a more casual presentation, the pork can be served alongside crusty bread, which is excellent for dipping into the remaining sauce. The combination of the sweet glaze and the savory meat makes this dish a versatile centerpiece for any dinner.

Ensure each serving includes a generous portion of the caramelized onions and a drizzle of the reduced sauce from the slow cooker to provide the full depth of flavor in every bite.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Cherry Soda Pork Chops

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 3 minTotal 4 h 8 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 slices boneless pork loin
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced into rings
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup cherry soda

Instructions

1. Place the boneless pork loin slices into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Arrange the sliced onion rings evenly over the top of the pork. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions, and finish by pouring the cherry soda over the entire assembly.
2. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to low. Cook for 4 to 6 hours until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the pork and let the meat rest for at least 3 minutes before serving.
3. Transfer the tender pork chops to a warm plate. Serve with the soft onions and a spoonful of the thickened pan sauce from the slow cooker.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

7 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

30 g

Sodium

120 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.