Crockpot Pork Chops: Simple, Delicious Recipes
Crockpot pork chops are a delightful meal that combine the simplicity of slow cooking with the succulent flavors of tender pork. This blog post explores a variety of easy yet mouthwatering recipes that you can try in your own kitchen, allowing you to savor the depth of flavor that slow cooking imparts to pork.
Ingredients for Basic Crockpot Pork Chops
- 4 to 6 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: thyme, rosemary, paprika, or other herbs/spices
Crockpot Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
For a comforting fall or winter dish, try this combination:
- 4 pork chops
- 2 large apples, sliced (Granny Smith work well)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1⁄2 cup apple cider or juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Steps:
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
- Layer the bottom of the slow cooker with onion slices, then place the pork chops on top.
- Add apple slices over the chops, dot with butter, and pour the apple cider over everything.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
Mushroom Gravy Pork Chops
This recipe delivers a creamy, rich sauce with a subtle earthy flavor from mushrooms:
- 6 pork chops
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 package dry onion soup mix
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1⁄2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1⁄2 cup milk or cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Steps:
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
- Whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, and white wine in the slow cooker.
- Add pork chops and mushrooms, making sure they are partially submerged in the liquid.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours. Add milk or cream in the last hour of cooking for a creamier texture.
Notes for Cooking Crockpot Pork Chops:
💡 Note: Cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops and the type of slow cooker you have. Always check for doneness.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot pork chops pair wonderfully with various sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes is the perfect companion to the rich sauce of the pork chops.
- Steamed Vegetables: Greens like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans offer a colorful and healthy balance.
- Rice or Quinoa: These grains can absorb the flavors of the pork chop gravy beautifully.
In this culinary journey, we've explored a handful of delicious recipes for crockpot pork chops. These dishes not only showcase the convenience of slow cooking but also highlight the depth of flavor that can be achieved with minimal effort. Whether you're looking for comfort food or something a bit lighter with apples and herbs, there's a recipe here to suit every palate. Experiment with these recipes, and don't be afraid to make them your own by adding or substituting ingredients to your taste.
Can I use frozen pork chops in a crockpot?
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No, it’s not recommended to cook frozen pork chops in a slow cooker due to food safety concerns. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first.
How do I thicken the sauce in my crockpot pork chop recipe?
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If your sauce needs thickening, you can do one of the following: mix a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water), stir it into the sauce, and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes, or simply remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
Can I cook pork chops with the bone in?
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Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add flavor to the dish and cook well in a slow cooker. Just ensure you account for the extra cooking time they might need.