There’s something truly satisfying about coming home to the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked comfort food wafting through the air. Picture this: after a long day, you walk into your kitchen, and the tender, juicy scent of Crock Pot Pork Chops greets you like a warm hug. I’ve made it my mission to turn weeknight meals into family favorites, and this recipe does just that. With minimal prep and effortless ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how easily these succulent chops come together, bathing in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and a hint of Italian herbs.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a culinary novice, or just someone who’s tired of fast food, this easy recipe will restore the joy of cooking at home. Plus, with options for variations and adaptations, you can tailor it to fit your taste and pantry staples. Let’s dive into this cozy dish that promises to elevate your dinner table with effortless flair!
Why Love Crock Pot Pork Chops?
Effortless cooking: With just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These pork chops slow-cook to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy bites that are hard to resist.
Rich, comforting flavors: Infused with garlic and cream, your senses will be delighted by this savory dish, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Versatile recipe: Customize your chops with optional ingredients like Dijon mustard or fresh herbs to keep things exciting and new.
Perfect for busy days: The slow cooker does the work for you, allowing you to come home to a warm, delicious meal waiting for you.
For more ideas on serving this dish, check out our serving suggestions.
Crock Pot Pork Chops Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
• Boneless Pork Chops – Main protein, ensures tenderness; substitute bone-in chops for more flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasoning to enhance flavors; use freshly ground for best results.
• Olive Oil – For searing chops, adds richness; vegetable oil can be a suitable replacement.
For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds creaminess and depth of flavor; margarine can be used as an alternative.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder can serve as a quick substitute.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Contributes a lovely herby flavor; use individual herbs if needed.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup) – The sauce’s base, adding moisture; water can replace it in a pinch.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) or Half and Half – Creates a rich, velvety sauce; choose half and half for a lighter version.
Optional Ingredients
• Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp) – Adds a burst of tanginess; you can omit it if you prefer milder flavors.
• Cornstarch (2 tsp) + Water (2 tsp) – Thickens the sauce; mix well before use; flour can be a substitute.
• Fresh Chopped Parsley – For garnish, brightens the dish; can be omitted for simplicity.
Indulge in these Crock Pot Pork Chops as they transform into an irresistible feast that’s perfect for any cozy dinner!
How to Make Crock Pot Pork Chops
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Prepare Pork Chops: Pat the boneless pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
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Sear for Flavor: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3–4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown, then gently remove them from the skillet.
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Sauté Garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.
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Create the Sauce: Stir in the Italian seasoning, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring a rich, creamy sauce forms.
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Simmer Chops: Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, allowing them to simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes or until they are fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce and continue simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pork chops for a burst of color and freshness before serving. Enjoy!
Optional: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Pork Chops
Fridge: Store leftover Crock Pot Pork Chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: Freeze the pork chops in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Remember to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth to the sauce for extra moisture if needed.
Wrapping: If you’re storing them for a longer duration, tightly wrap the chops in plastic wrap before placing them in a container or bag for optimal freshness.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Pork Chops?
There’s nothing quite like creating a delightful meal that complements the creamy, savory goodness of slow-cooked pork.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smooth texture pairs perfectly with the sauce, soaking up every delicious drop. They’re the ultimate comfort food companion!
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Green Beans Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds add a crunchy contrast. The bright flavors balance the richness of the pork, bringing harmony to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: The aroma of warm, garlicky bread invites conversation at the table. It’s ideal for mopping up that luscious sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
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Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory pork. Plus, the lovely caramelization adds depth, creating an inviting color on your plate.
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Mac and Cheese: Who can resist gooey, cheesy goodness? This dish offers a delightful, kid-friendly twist to your meal, adding creaminess and heartiness.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette will add a refreshing bite. The crunchiness contrasts beautifully with the tender pork, keeping your palate intrigued.
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Apple Sauce: A classic side, its sweet-tart flavor cuts through the richness of the pork chops, refreshing your taste buds with each bite.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay won’t just quench your thirst but elevate the dining experience with its elegant flavors, perfectly pairing with pork dishes.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Pork Chops are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce up to 48 hours in advance by sautéing the garlic, incorporating the Italian seasoning, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, season the pork chops with salt and pepper and keep them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the chops and add them to the skillet with the pre-made sauce, simmering until cooked through. This way, you’ll have tender, flavorful pork chops with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Crock Pot Pork Chops Variations
Want to add a personal twist to your Crock Pot Pork Chops? Here are some delightful options to customize your dish!
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Protein Swap: Use chicken thighs instead of pork for a different yet equally tender meat option. The flavors will blend beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Herb Infusion: Substitute the Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic upgrade. Their freshness will elevate the flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat. This adds depth and excitement for those who like a bit of spice in their meal.
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Vegetable Boost: Throw in chopped carrots, potatoes, or even bell peppers during the cooking process. They’ll absorb the savory flavors and create a heartier dish.
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Creamy Twist: Swap out heavy cream for cream cheese for a rich, tangy sauce. It adds a delightful twist that will make your family crave seconds.
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Dijon-Free: Omit the Dijon mustard for a milder, smoother flavor. Perfect for those who prefer a more subtle taste without losing any creaminess.
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Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, add a bit of flour instead of cornstarch. This will create a luscious, velvety consistency that coats the chops beautifully.
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Savory Addition: Include a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor, making the dish even more irresistible.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create a meal that reflects your taste and preferences!
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Pork Chops
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Searing Matters: Don’t skip the searing step; it locks in juices and gives the chops a flavorful crust. This enhances the overall taste of your Crock Pot Pork Chops.
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Low & Slow: Cook on low heat rather than high to ensure tenderness. Rushing the process can lead to rubbery, tough meat.
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Thawing Required: Always thaw frozen pork chops completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and avoids a dry texture.
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Taste Test: Adjust flavors gradually. If the sauce is too salty, introduce a splash of lemon juice to balance it out.
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Customize Veggies: While adding veggies like potatoes can make for a complete meal, avoid soft veggies that lose their texture, like mushrooms, during slow cooking.
Crock Pot Pork Chops Recipe FAQs
What type of pork chops should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops are ideal for this Crock Pot recipe as they ensure tenderness and cook evenly. However, if you prefer bone-in chops for extra flavor, just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly.
How long can I store leftover pork chops in the fridge?
You can keep leftover Crock Pot Pork Chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool down before sealing to preserve their juiciness.
Can I freeze cooked pork chops?
Very! To freeze, place the chops in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible (this helps prevent freezer burn). They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my pork chops turn out tough?
If your pork chops become tough, it might be due to cooking on too high a setting or not having enough moisture in the slow cooker. Always cook on low for best results. If you find yourself in this situation, try adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to reintroduce moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations for these pork chops?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, be mindful of the ingredients such as butter and Dijon mustard. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and olive oil instead of butter. Additionally, if you’re serving these chops to pets, make sure there’s no garlic or seasoning, as these can be harmful to them.
How do I ensure my sauce thickens properly?
To achieve a beautifully thick sauce, combine 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with an equal part of water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce. Stir continuously while simmering for a few minutes until it thickens nicely. This method provides a creamy texture that clings perfectly to your pork chops.
Crock Pot Pork Chops: Juicy Flavor That Melts in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the boneless pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3–4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown, then gently remove them from the skillet.
- Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard (if using). Mix everything together until well combined.
- Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, allowing them to simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes or until fully cooked through.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce and continue simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pork chops for a burst of color and freshness before serving.