Slow Cooker Pork Chops are tender and juicy, making dinner a breeze! Just season the chops, pop them in the slow cooker, and let the flavors blend over time.
I love how easy it is to come home to a warm, cooked meal. Plus, the smell fills the house, and it’s hard not to sneak a taste before dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give great flavor and tenderness. If needed, boneless chops work just as well. They’re slightly leaner, so cooking time may be a bit shorter.
Onions: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness. If you’re out of onions, shallots or leeks can be good substitutes.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor. Vegetable broth or water with a bit of extra seasoning can work too, especially for lighter dishes.
Soy Sauce: For a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce. If you need a gluten-free option, coconut aminos are a tasty alternative.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a zing! You can swap it with yellow mustard for a milder taste or omit it if you prefer. I always use a bit of honey mustard for a sweet twist!
How Do You Get the Most Flavor from Your Pork Chops?
To boost flavor, start by seasoning your pork chops well. Searing them in a hot skillet creates a nice crust and locks in juices. It’s simple but crucial! Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil until it’s shimmering before adding the chops.
- Allow the chops to sear without moving them for 2 minutes before flipping.
- Don’t skip the onion and garlic sauté! It enhances the base flavor of your sauce.
For best results, let the chops cook low and slow for that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. They’ll absorb all the wonderful sauce flavors!
Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For Thickening:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or rosemary (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time. Then, let your slow cooker do its magic with 6-7 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. A little patience goes a long way for tender, flavorful pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning your pork chops liberally with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step sets the foundation for flavor in your dish!
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. This helps lock in the juices. Once seared, transfer the pork chops to your slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and start to soften. This step adds depth to the sauce!
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, thyme, and smoked paprika into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it come to a light simmer, which helps meld those amazing flavors.
5. Combine with Pork Chops:
Pour the delicious sauce mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker, ensuring they’re well-coated!
6. Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops carefully and place them on a warm plate. To thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth, then stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker. Turn the slow cooker to high and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes until it thickens into a nice gravy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Return the pork chops to the slow cooker and pour the thickened sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary if you like, and serve hot! They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes and green beans or your favorite veggies.
Enjoy your meal! These Slow Cooker Pork Chops are the perfect comfort food and sure to impress everyone around the table!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops! Just make sure to add an extra hour to the cooking time on low or about 30 minutes on high to ensure they are thoroughly cooked and tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Soy Sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re avoiding soy, you can substitute with coconut aminos for a similar flavor. Alternatively, use a mixture of broth and some extra seasoning like salt, garlic powder, and a touch of vinegar for tang.
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
What Should I Serve with Slow Cooker Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed veggies or a simple salad make good side options for a complete meal!
