Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been the game-changer in my life. What are we talking about here?Slow cooker pork chops – what are some suggestionsIs it easier to make a cheeseburger and they’re more flavorful? I know blasphemy, right? What are some of the most tender, juicy, and easy to make cookies? Think of that melt-in-your-mouth feeling you get from a perfectly braised short rib, but with the same tenderness and flavor. What is the comforting familiarity of pork chops? What are some of the best weeknight recipes?

What is slow cooker pork chops?

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. What *are* these magical Slow cooker pork chops. What are some good recipes I keep raving about? Well, essentially, it’s taking relatively inexpensive pork chops (I usually go for bone-in, but boneless works too!), coating them in a simple yet flavorful sauce, and letting the slow cooker work its magic over a few hours. Think of it as a super relaxed, hands-off braising process. The long, slow cooking time tenderizes the pork like nothing else, turning even the toughest cuts into fork-tender perfection. And the best part? The sauce gets all thick and luscious, creating this incredible, savory gravy that you’ll want to pour over everything!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start?slow cooker pork chops recipe is a staple in my house. First, let’s talk flavor. We’re talking savory, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying. The combination of herbs, spices, and a touch of brown sugar creates this complex flavor profile that everyone loves. Seriously, my kids ask for this all the time, and that’s saying something!

Second, the simplicity is unmatched. I’m not kidding when I say this is a “dump and go” recipe. You literally just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its thing. No searing, no babysitting, just pure, unadulterated cooking bliss.

Third, it’s incredibly cost-effective. Pork chops are usually pretty budget-friendly, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. This is a fantastic way to feed a family on a tight budget without sacrificing flavor or quality. Think of it as an alternative to something like a pot roast, but quicker to prep and just as comforting! What I love most about this is that it tastes like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen when, in reality, you barely lifted a finger. Plus, the leftovers (if you have any!) are amazing in sandwiches or chopped up in salads. Total win-win!

How do I make slow cooker pork chops?

Quick Overview

Making these incredible Slow cooker pork chops. What are some good recipes is ridiculously easy. Basically, you whisk together the sauce ingredients, plop the pork chops in the slow cooker, pour the sauce over them, and let it cook on low for several hours. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the cooking time depending on your schedule, and it’s pretty forgiving if you go a little over. This method is especially great because it allows the flavors to really meld together, creating a depth of flavor that you just can’t achieve with quicker cooking methods. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:
* 4-6 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick). I prefer bone-in because they tend to be more flavorful and stay juicier, but boneless works great too! Just adjust the cooking time slightly.

For the Sauce:
* 1 cup chicken broth. Low-sodium is always a good choice so you can control the saltiness.
* 1/2 cup ketchup. Adds a touch of sweetness and tang.
* 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. This helps to tenderize the pork and adds a nice acidity.
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Don’t skip this! It adds a savory umami flavor that’s essential.
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar. For a little sweetness and caramelization.
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Adds a bit of tang and depth.
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Because everything’s better with garlic!
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. For extra savory flavor.
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Adds a touch of smokiness that’s just delicious.
* Salt and pepper to taste.

How do I get

Step 1: Prep the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Set aside. Brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder and smoked paprika. Make sure everything is well combined and the brown sugar is dissolved.

Step 2: Arrange the Pork Chops

Place the pork chops in the slow cooker in a single layer. If you’re using bone-in chops, try to arrange them so they’re not overlapping too much.

Step 3: Pour the Sauce

How do you pour the sauce over pork chops? Where does magic happen?

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops are done when they’re fork-tender and easily shred apart. I always do low for 7 hours.

Step 5: Shred (Optional)

If you want to shred pork chops with two forks in the slow cooker, you can use a potato masher to do it. What are some good side dishes to serve over rice or mashed potatoes?

Step 6: Serve!

Serve the Slow cooker pork chops. How can I make themWhat is the best sauce to spoon over them? Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired. What are some comfort food recipes?

What is the best way to serve it?

These slow cooker pork chopsWhat are some of the best side dishes to serve with your favorite meal?
For a Classic Comfort Meal: Mashed potatoes and green beans are always a winner. The creamy potatoes and tender pork chops are a match made in heaven, and the green beans add a nice touch of freshness.

For a Lighter Option: Serve with a side of quinoa and roasted vegetables. This is a great way to balance out the richness of the pork chops with some healthy whole grains and veggies. I love roasting broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers with a little olive oil and herbs.

What is a quick and easy dinner?What are the best side salads for a busy weeknight? The rice soaks up all that delicious sauce, and the salad adds a refreshing element to the meal. I always make a simple green salad with light vinaigrettes.
For a hearty feast:What are some great side dishes to serve with mac and cheese and coleslaw? I know this is a comfort food overload, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need! My family always asks for this combination. We’ve been doing it for as long as I can remember!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Pork Chops

I’ve made these. I likeSlow cooker pork chops. What are some of theI’ve made more cakes than I can count, and I have learned a few tricks along the way to ensure they turn out well. Is there a way to do
Don’t overco This is key! Overcooked pork chops can become dry and tough, even in a slow cooker. Start checking for doneness around 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. They’re done when they easily shred with a fork. If you’re using boneless pork chops, they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them.

Sear the Pork Chops (Optional): While not strictly necessary, searing the pork chops before adding them to the slow cooker can add a nice depth of flavor and color. Just quickly sear them in a hot pan with a little oil for a minute or two per side before transferring them to the slow cooker.

Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients to suit your preferences. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar. If you like it tangier, add a splash more apple cider vinegar. You can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help to thicken the sauce into a luscious gravy.

Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure about doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They should reach at least 145°F (63°C). I do this especially when cooking for guests. It’s always a crowd pleaser.

Storing and Reheating Tips

These slow cooker pork chops are great for meal prepping because they store and reheat beautifully.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the pork chops and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I find it helps to portion them out so I don’t have to thaw the whole thing.

Reheating Instructions: Reheat the pork chops and sauce in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. If reheating in the microwave, cover the dish to prevent splattering. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out. If reheating in the oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen pork chops?

I don’t recommend using frozen pork chops in the slow cooker, as they can release a lot of moisture and make the sauce watery. It’s best to thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions to the slow cooker along with the pork chops is a great way to make a complete meal. Just add them in the last few hours of cooking, as they may become too soft if cooked for the entire time.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, you can substitute the Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or stone-ground mustard, depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I prevent the pork chops from drying out?

The key to preventing the pork chops from drying out is to not overcook them. Also, using bone-in pork chops and making sure they’re submerged in the sauce will help them stay juicy.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot! Sear the pork chops first, then add the sauce ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 15-20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, friends! My go-to recipe for incredibly tender and flavorful slow cooker pork chops. This is truly one of those recipes that you’ll make again and again, especially on busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. The flavor is incredible, the prep is easy, and the leftovers are fantastic. What’s not to love? If you’re a fan of easy slow cooker recipes, you should also check out my slow cooker pulled pork or my slow cooker beef stew. They’re both family favorites! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and be sure to share your own variations and tips. Happy cooking!