Crock Pot Pork Chops – Tender, Juicy & Easy Slow Cooker Dinner

Welcome to a Cozy Dinner Experience!

Hey there, my fellow food lover! Are you ready for a deliciously easy meal that you can throw together and let the magic happen while you go about your day? Today, I’m excited to share my Crock Pot Pork Chops recipe with you! Trust me, these pork chops turn out so tender and juicy, you’ll be amazed. Plus, using a slow cooker means it’s practically hassle-free!

Why You’ll Love These Pork Chops

First off, let’s talk about what makes this dish so wonderful. Slow cooking not only brings out the flavors but also makes the meat incredibly tender. No next-day eating dry pork, I promise you that! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a comforting meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

Nutritional Benefits

Did you know pork is a great source of protein? Each serving gives you a hefty boost to your daily needs, helping build muscle and keep you energized. Plus, with the addition of garlic and herbs, you’re not just flavoring your dish; you’re also adding potential health benefits. Garlic has been known to boost your immune system, while rosemary and thyme may have anti-inflammatory properties. How about that for some extra goodness on your plate?

Adaptable Variations

Don’t hesitate to switch things up according to what you or your family enjoys!

• Different Cuts: If you don’t have bone-in chops, boneless ones work too. Just cook them a little less.
• No Worcestershire Sauce? Substitute it with soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in baby carrots or baby potatoes in the slow cooker. They’ll soak up all those delicious flavors along with the pork!

Let’s Get Cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening sauce)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops: Season both sides of the pork chops with the salt and black pepper. Simple yet super effective!
2. Sear the Pork Chops: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step really adds fantastic flavor and texture.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Once seared, remove the pork chops and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened. Toss in the minced garlic for the last 30 seconds to make your kitchen smell incredible.
4. Set Up the Slow Cooker: Place the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Give it a good stir to combine.
5. Add Pork Chops: Place the seared pork chops on top of the broth mixture. Make sure they’re submerged as much as possible.
6. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and let it do its thing! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and full of flavor!
7. Optional Sauce Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, once the pork chops are done, carefully remove them and set them aside. Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker. Turn the heat up to high, and let it thicken for about 15 minutes.
8. Serve: Plate those delicious pork chops and ladle the sauce over them. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that pop of color!

Practical and Valuable Tips

• Storage: Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. They’re fantastic reheated!
• Serving: These chops go wonderfully with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies, but feel free to get creative with your sides!
• Make-ahead: You can prepare everything the night before and just toss it in the cooker in the morning. What a time-saver!

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful meal:

• A large skillet for searing
• A slow cooker (this is the star of the show!)
• A cutting board and knife for prep
• A mixing bowl for cornstarch slurry (if using)
• A serving platter for presentation

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless pork chops? Absolutely! Just reduce the cooking time slightly.
2. What if I don’t have chicken broth? You could use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, but the broth definitely adds more flavor.
3. How do I know when the pork chops are done? Ideally, they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker? Yes! Carrots, potatoes, and even green beans add great flavor.
5. Will leftovers taste good? Yes! The flavors just deepen the next day, making them even tastier!

Let’s Connect and Share!

I’d love to hear how your pork chops turned out! Did you make any tasty variations? Feel free to share your experience. And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more easy and delightful recipes that you can enjoy with loved ones!