Crockpot Pork Chops are juicy and tender cooked slowly in your trusted slow cooker. Just add pork chops, some tasty seasonings, and maybe a splash of broth for flavor!
Honestly, it’s a lifesaver on busy days! I love coming home to that delicious smell. Serve them with rice or mashed potatoes for a perfect meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for this recipe as they stay juicy. If you only have boneless, they can work too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they cook faster.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you prefer a milder flavor, try shallots or even a sweet onion like Vidalia. If onions aren’t your thing, leave them out or use onion powder instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a great aroma and taste. You can substitute with garlic powder—1/8 teaspoon per clove you replace, but fresh is always better.
Broth: Chicken broth enhances flavor. You can swap it with vegetable broth for a lighter taste, or use beef broth for a richer flavor.
Herbs: Dried thyme and sage are fantastic, but feel free to switch them with whatever you have on hand—Italian seasoning is a great alternative.
How Can I Get the Perfectly Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops before placing them in the crockpot adds an extra layer of flavor. If you’re short on time, skip this step, but here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the chops.
- Carefully add the seasoned pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes until browned, then flip and sear the other side.
- Once both sides are golden, transfer them to the crockpot right on top of the onions and garlic. This caramelization makes a big difference!
Now you’re ready to let the slow cooker do its magic! Enjoy your flavorful and tender pork chops!
Crockpot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 3 fresh sprigs)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or fresh sage leaves)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and then allows for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for meal prep or a busy day when you want a warm, hearty dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season Your Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better. Generously sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. These spices will add great flavor to your meat!
2. Sear the Pork Chops (Optional):
If you want a little extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Don’t worry if you’re short on time; you can skip this step and still have tasty chops!
3. Prepare the Crockpot:
In the bottom of your crockpot, place the chopped onions and minced garlic. This creates a flavorful base for the pork chops. Spread them out evenly.
4. Add the Pork Chops:
Now, gently arrange the seared pork chops on top of the onions and garlic. This ensures everything cooks together perfectly.
5. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the pork chops. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, add that in too for bonus flavor. It’s going to enhance everything as it cooks!
6. Season with Herbs:
Sprinkle the dried thyme and sage over the chops, or place fresh sprigs if you have them. The herbs will infuse the meat with a wonderful aroma. Cover the crockpot with its lid.
7. Cooking Time:
Set your crockpot on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The pork chops are done when they are fork-tender, which means they should shred easily with a fork!
8. Optional Sauce Thickening:
If you’d like a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops once they are done. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the broth and cook on HIGH for an additional 10-15 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the pork chops back into the pot or serve them on a plate with the delicious sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. These delicious pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies. Enjoy your comforting, home-cooked meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Check them for doneness after about 3 hours on HIGH or 5 hours on LOW to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great alternative. You can also use beef broth for a richer flavor—just adjust seasoning accordingly as it may be saltier.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers. Just chop them and layer them at the bottom of the crockpot before adding the pork chops. This way, they will absorb flavors while cooking.
