These Crockpot Pork Chops are super tender and packed with flavor! Just throw the chops in the slow cooker with some tasty sauce, and let it do all the work for you.
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I enjoy serving these with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies for a cozy dinner that’s ready when you are!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give great flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, boneless chops work too, but they may require less cooking time. Always check for doneness!
The Oil: I use olive oil for its flavor, but vegetable or canola oil can also work. Use what you have on hand!
Onion: Chopped onions add sweetness. If you’re sensitive to onion, try using shallots or scallions instead for a milder taste.
Thyme and Rosemary: These herbs bring a lovely aroma. If you don’t have them, Italian seasoning or a pinch of dried basil could be a nice alternative.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth. For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium broth or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
How Do You Ensure Pork Chops Are Tender and Flavorful?
One of the key steps is searing the pork chops before adding them to the crockpot. This step locks in juices and creates a nice crust. Don’t rush it! Heat the oil until it shimmers, then place in your chops.
- Season chops well, then sear each side for 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; searing in batches is best if making more.
The slow cooker does the rest! The long, low cooking time breaks down the meat and infuses it with flavor from the broth and herbs. Just make sure not to lift the lid too often—keeping the heat in is important!
How to Make Delicious Crockpot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes for prep and the slow cooker will do the rest! Plan for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high cooking time. Perfect for a busy day when you want a warm meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy; this will help enhance the flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This helps to lock in the juices and gives them a great color. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and carrots. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions start to become translucent. Then, add in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth along with the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Stir everything well, making sure to scrape any tasty brown bits from the bottom of the pan. These will add extra flavor!
5. Assemble in the Crockpot:
Transfer your vegetable and broth mixture into the crockpot. Lay the seared pork chops on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the thyme and rosemary over everything for that wonderful herbal aroma!
6. Cook:
Cover the crockpot, and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork is done when it’s tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cooking time is up, dish out the pork chops along with the vegetables and spoon some of the tasty sauce over the top. Add a fresh thyme sprig for garnish if you like. These are fantastic served with mashed potatoes or any side of your choice!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Crockpot Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that boneless chops may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 2-3 hour mark on high heat or 4-5 hours on low.
Can I Cook This Recipe Without Searing the Pork Chops?
While searing adds great flavor and keeps the chops juicy, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. Just place the seasoned pork chops directly into the crockpot with the broth and vegetables.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of their cooking times, as some might need adjustments for optimal tenderness.
