Effortless Slow Cooker Pork Chops: Delicious Recipes for Weeknight Dinners
Slow cookers are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and pork chops are a budget-friendly and versatile protein. Combining the two is a recipe for success! This article will explore several simple slow cooker pork chop recipes that are easy to prepare and result in tender, flavorful, and satisfying meals. We’ll cover everything from basic techniques to variations that cater to different tastes. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to discover the magic of slow-cooked pork chops!
Why Slow Cook Pork Chops?
Pork chops can sometimes be tricky to cook. Overcooking them can lead to dry, tough meat. Slow cooking eliminates this risk. The low and slow cooking process breaks down the muscle fibers, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy pork chops. It also allows the flavors of the other ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and complex sauce that complements the pork perfectly. Another great advantage of using a slow cooker is the minimal effort required. Simply toss the ingredients in, set the timer, and walk away. You’ll come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
Essential Slow Cooker Pork Chop Techniques
Before diving into specific recipes, let’s cover some essential techniques for making perfect slow cooker pork chops:
* **Choosing the Right Pork Chops:** The best type of pork chop for slow cooking is a bone-in pork chop. The bone adds flavor and helps to keep the meat moist. Look for thicker chops (at least 1 inch thick) as they will hold up better during the long cooking process. Boneless pork chops can also be used, but they tend to dry out more easily, so be sure to include plenty of liquid in the recipe.
* **Searing (Optional):** While not strictly necessary, searing the pork chops before adding them to the slow cooker adds a beautiful color and enhances the flavor. Sear them in a hot skillet with a little oil for a couple of minutes per side, until browned. This step creates a delicious crust that seals in the juices.
* **Building Flavor:** The key to delicious slow cooker pork chops is to layer flavors. Start with a good base, such as chicken broth, apple cider, or barbecue sauce. Then, add aromatic vegetables like onions, garlic, and celery. Herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, paprika, and garlic powder will further enhance the flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!
* **Adding Liquid:** It’s important to have enough liquid in the slow cooker to prevent the pork chops from drying out. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the chops. If using boneless chops, you may need slightly more liquid.
* **Cooking Time:** The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chops and the setting of your slow cooker. Generally, pork chops will need to cook for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through. The safe internal temperature for pork is 145°F (63°C).
* **Thickening the Sauce (Optional):** If you want a thicker sauce, you can thicken it at the end of the cooking time. Remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and set them aside. Whisk together 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, you can transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until thickened.
Recipe 1: Classic Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Onion Gravy
This is a simple and classic recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. The onion gravy is rich, flavorful, and goes perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
* 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the pork chops (optional):** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. **Sauté the onion and garlic:** In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. **Add to the slow cooker:** Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker, on top of the pork chops.
4. **Add seasonings and broth:** Sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper over the pork chops and onions. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
6. **Thicken the gravy (optional):** Remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until thickened.
7. **Serve:** Serve the pork chops with the onion gravy, mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Recipe 2: Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Apples and Onions
This recipe combines the savory flavor of pork with the sweetness of apples and onions. It’s a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for fall.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* 2 apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and sliced
* 1/2 cup apple cider
* 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the pork chops (optional):** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. **Layer the ingredients:** In the slow cooker, layer the sliced onions and apples on top of the pork chops.
3. **Add liquids and seasonings:** In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the pork chops, onions, and apples.
4. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
5. **Serve:** Serve the pork chops with the apples and onions, mashed potatoes, or rice. Drizzle the sauce over the top.
Recipe 3: Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Chops
For a tangy and smoky flavor, try these slow cooker BBQ pork chops. They’re perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or served alongside your favorite barbecue sides.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine ingredients:** In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and pepper.
2. **Place pork chops in slow cooker:** Place the pork chops in the slow cooker.
3. **Pour sauce over pork chops:** Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated.
4. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
5. **Shred (optional):** If desired, shred the pork chops with two forks before serving.
6. **Serve:** Serve the BBQ pork chops on buns for sandwiches or sliders, or alongside coleslaw, baked beans, and corn on the cob.
Recipe 4: Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
This recipe features a rich and decadent creamy mushroom sauce that elevates the humble pork chop to a gourmet level.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the pork chops (optional):** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. **Sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic:** In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. **Add to the slow cooker:** Transfer the sautéed mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker, on top of the pork chops.
4. **Add seasonings and broth:** Sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper over the pork chops and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
6. **Make the creamy sauce:** Remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and all-purpose flour until smooth. Stir the cream mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. **Serve:** Serve the pork chops with the creamy mushroom sauce, mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.
Recipe 5: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Chops
These Honey Garlic Pork Chops are sweet, savory, and incredibly flavorful. The honey garlic sauce is sticky and delicious, making these a family favorite.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1/2 cup honey
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons ketchup
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine ingredients:** In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. **Place pork chops in slow cooker:** Place the pork chops in the slow cooker.
3. **Pour sauce over pork chops:** Pour the honey garlic sauce over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated.
4. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
5. **Serve:** Serve the honey garlic pork chops with rice, steamed vegetables, or noodles.
Recipe 6: Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Potatoes and Carrots
This is a complete one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The pork chops cook alongside potatoes and carrots, creating a hearty and satisfying dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup chicken broth
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the vegetables:** In the slow cooker, layer the potatoes, carrots, and chopped onion.
2. **Place pork chops on top:** Place the pork chops on top of the vegetables.
3. **Add seasonings and broth:** Sprinkle the rosemary, salt, and pepper over the pork chops and vegetables. Add the minced garlic. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C) and the vegetables are tender.
5. **Serve:** Serve the pork chops with the potatoes and carrots. Drizzle the sauce over the top.
Recipe 7: Slow Cooker French Onion Pork Chops
Transform the classic French Onion soup into a delicious pork chop dish. The caramelized onions and rich broth create a flavorful and comforting meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 2 large onions, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 4 cups beef broth
* 4 slices of French bread, toasted
* 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Caramelize the onions:** In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 30-40 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
2. **Place pork chops in slow cooker:** Place the pork chops in the slow cooker.
3. **Top with caramelized onions:** Top the pork chops with the caramelized onions.
4. **Add seasonings and broth:** Sprinkle the thyme, salt, and pepper over the pork chops and onions. Pour in the beef broth.
5. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
6. **Assemble and broil (optional):** Ladle the pork chops and broth into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted French bread and sprinkle with Gruyere cheese. Broil for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, skip this step and serve with toasted bread on the side for dipping in the sauce.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
Recipe 8: Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Sauerkraut and Apples
This recipe is a German-inspired dish that combines the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with the sweetness of apples and the savory taste of pork. It’s a unique and delicious combination.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1 (14 ounce) can sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
* 2 apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and chopped
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1/2 cup apple juice
* 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer ingredients:** In the slow cooker, layer the sauerkraut, chopped apples, and chopped onion.
2. **Place pork chops on top:** Place the pork chops on top of the sauerkraut mixture.
3. **Add juice and seasonings:** Pour the apple juice over the pork chops and sauerkraut. Sprinkle with caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
5. **Serve:** Serve the pork chops with the sauerkraut and apples.
Recipe 9: Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Pork Chops
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, especially for those who love ranch dressing. The creamy ranch sauce adds a tangy and flavorful twist to the pork chops.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1 (1 ounce) package dry ranch dressing mix
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Place pork chops in slow cooker:** Place the pork chops in the slow cooker.
2. **Combine sauce ingredients:** In a bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and pepper.
3. **Pour sauce over pork chops:** Pour the sauce over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated.
4. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
5. **Serve:** Serve the creamy ranch pork chops with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Recipe 10: Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Tomato Sauce and Peppers
This Italian-inspired recipe features a flavorful tomato sauce with bell peppers and onions. It’s a simple and delicious way to enjoy pork chops.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
* 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
* 1 red bell pepper, sliced
* 1 green bell pepper, sliced
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the vegetables:** In the slow cooker, layer the sliced bell peppers and chopped onion.
2. **Place pork chops on top:** Place the pork chops on top of the vegetables.
3. **Add sauce and seasonings:** Pour the marinara sauce over the pork chops and vegetables. Add the minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
5. **Serve:** Serve the pork chops with the tomato sauce and peppers, pasta, or rice. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Pork Chops
* **Don’t overcook:** Overcooked pork chops will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
* **Adjust cooking time:** Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker and the thickness of the pork chops. Check for doneness periodically.
* **Use bone-in chops for more flavor:** Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful and stay moister during slow cooking.
* **Sear for added flavor:** Searing the pork chops before slow cooking adds a beautiful color and enhances the flavor.
* **Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker:** Overcrowding can prevent the pork chops from cooking evenly.
* **Add vegetables for a complete meal:** Vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions can be cooked alongside the pork chops for a complete one-pot meal.
* **Thicken the sauce if desired:** If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can thicken it at the end of the cooking time with a cornstarch slurry or by simmering it in a saucepan.
* **Experiment with different flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create your own unique slow cooker pork chop recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Slow cooker pork chops are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Mashed potatoes:** A classic pairing that complements almost any pork chop recipe.
* **Rice:** A simple and versatile side dish that’s perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces.
* **Noodles:** Egg noodles or pasta tossed with butter or a light sauce are a great accompaniment.
* **Roasted vegetables:** Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus are healthy and delicious side dishes.
* **Coleslaw:** A refreshing and tangy side dish that’s perfect for BBQ pork chops.
* **Baked beans:** A classic barbecue side dish that complements smoky and savory pork chop recipes.
* **Corn on the cob:** A simple and seasonal side dish that’s perfect for summer.
* **Salad:** A crisp and refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the pork chops.
* **Bread:** Crusty bread or rolls are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauces.
Conclusion
Slow cooker pork chops are a delicious, easy, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With a little planning and these simple recipes, you can create tender, flavorful, and satisfying dishes that your whole family will love. So, grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the magic of slow-cooked pork chops!