Slow Cooker Pork Chops: Tender, Juicy, and Flavorful
Slow Cooker Pork Chops are an easy and delicious way to prepare tender, juicy pork chops with minimal effort. Using a slow cooker allows the pork chops to cook slowly in a rich, flavorful sauce, resulting in meat that practically falls off the bone. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make slow cooker pork chops that are flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Pork Chops
- Effortless Cooking: Simply set it and forget it—let the slow cooker do all the work!
- Tender and Juicy: Cooking the pork chops low and slow ensures they remain tender and juicy.
- Versatile: You can customize the sauce with your favorite flavors, making this recipe perfect for any palate.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This is a great recipe for meal prep, as the pork chops reheat well and stay flavorful.
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (for creamy sauce)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing the pork chops, optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Sear the Pork Chops (Optional): For extra flavor, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the pork chops on each side for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor. Transfer the pork chops to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom or chicken soup, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine.
- Slow Cook the Pork Chops: Place the pork chops into the sauce, ensuring they are mostly submerged. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you want a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and set them aside. Stir 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water into the sauce, then cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Serve the pork chops with the sauce spooned over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Variations and Add-Ins
- BBQ Pork Chops: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for your favorite BBQ sauce to create a tangy, sweet alternative.
- Smothered Pork Chops: Add sliced mushrooms and bell peppers to the slow cooker for extra flavor and texture.
- Herb Butter Pork Chops: Instead of a creamy sauce, cook the pork chops with chicken broth, garlic, fresh rosemary, and thyme for a light, herb-infused dish.
Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Pork Chops
- Don’t Overcook: Slow cooking is great for tenderizing meat, but be careful not to overcook the pork chops. Check for doneness at the minimum recommended time to ensure they stay juicy.
- Bone-In for More Flavor: Bone-in pork chops tend to have more flavor and stay moister during cooking, but boneless chops work just as well.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker gravy-like sauce, you can add cornstarch or flour at the end of cooking to thicken it.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Pork Chops are an easy and flavorful way to enjoy tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork. With minimal prep and a rich, savory sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve them with your favorite sides, and enjoy this simple yet delicious meal!
