These Crockpot Pork Chops are super easy to make and soak up delicious flavors while they cook. Just toss the chops in with some savory sauce and let the slow cooker do the magic!
I’m always amazed at how tender the pork becomes. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a tasty meal with minimal effort. I love serving it with mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce! Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and stay juicy during cooking. If you can only find boneless, that’s fine; just adjust cooking time slightly as they may cook faster.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Chicken Broth: This is the base of your sauce. Vegetable broth is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Fresh Herbs: Using fresh thyme and rosemary will elevate the flavors. If fresh isn’t available, dried works just as well. Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard can be a fine substitute, though it’s milder.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender?
The key to tender pork chops lies in the slow cooking process. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Start by seasoning your pork chops well with salt and pepper.
- Searing them in a hot skillet before adding them to the crockpot helps to lock in moisture. Don’t skip this step!
- When ready, cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Low and slow is the way to go!
- Check for doneness; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Let them rest before serving to keep them juicy.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly tender and flavorful pork chops every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Delicious Crockpot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and 6-7 hours to cook on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in the crockpot. Just set it up and let it do its thing while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning the pork chops on both sides with salt and black pepper. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear each side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. When done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Place the browned pork chops into the crockpot. This will help lock in all that deliciousness as they cook!
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet you used for the pork, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Then, pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will add extra flavor to your sauce!
5. Add Flavorings:
Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything really well, then pour this sauce over the pork chops in the crockpot. Yum!
6. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let the magic happen! Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender and fully cooked.
7. Optional – Thicken the Sauce:
If you like a thicker sauce, about 20-30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the crockpot sauce and continue cooking until thickened!
8. Serve:
Once cooked, your pork chops are ready to enjoy! Garnish them with fresh thyme sprigs if you’d like, and serve hot with the rich sauce spooned over the top. They go perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Crockpot Pork Chops!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the pork chops before cooking for even results. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method in a sealed plastic bag. Once thawed, follow the recipe as directed!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just note that it may alter the richness of the sauce slightly.
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep them moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Crockpot?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans is a great way to make it a full meal. Just chop them and layer them under the pork chops in the crockpot, as they’ll cook beautifully alongside.
