Crockpot Pork Chops are the ultimate comfort food! These tender chops are slow-cooked with delicious seasonings and broth until they are fall-apart perfect.
It’s so easy to make! Just throw everything in the crockpot, and let it do its magic while you relax. You’ll love how the flavors blend together for a super tasty meal! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, they will work too, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.
Onions: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. Shallots are a nice substitute if you have them on hand. For a milder flavor, use green onions.
Chicken Broth: This helps keep the chops moist and flavorful. You can also use vegetable broth or homemade stock. For a low-sodium version, go for unsalted broth.
Thyme: Dried thyme is easy, but fresh thyme brings a brighter flavor. If you don’t have thyme, you might substitute oregano or Italian seasoning, but the taste will change slightly.
Flour: This is used to thicken the sauce. If you want a gluten-free option, corn starch mixed with cold water can be used instead.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing the Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops before slow cooking enhances their flavor and creates a nice crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high until hot.
- Add olive oil right before placing the pork chops in to prevent burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary.
- Cook each side for about 3 minutes until nicely browned.
- This step not only adds flavor but also locks in moisture when they cook in the crockpot.
With these tips in hand, you’ll whip up some mouthwatering Crockpot Pork Chops that’s sure to be a hit at your table!
How to Make Delicious Crockpot Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then it cooks in the crockpot for either 5-6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Plan ahead to get the most tender and flavorful pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops. Sprinkle them generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried rosemary. Make sure every part is covered for the best flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This locks in the juices and gives them a nice flavor. After searing, transfer the pork chops to the crockpot.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re fragrant and softened. This adds another layer of flavor to your dish, so don’t skip this step!
4. Add Broth and Thyme:
Pour the chicken broth and dried thyme into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any tasty browned bits. Let this mixture simmer for about 2 minutes.
5. Combine in the Crockpot:
Pour the onion and broth mixture over the pork chops in the crockpot. Make sure the chops are evenly covered. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the pork is tender and cooked through.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork chops from the crockpot and set them aside on a plate. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup of cold water to create a slurry.
7. Thicken the Cooking Liquid:
Pour the liquid from the crockpot into a skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
8. Coat the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, coating them with the thickened sauce. Alternatively, you can pour the sauce over them on a serving dish for a nice presentation.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing your dish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving. Enjoy your tender and flavorful Crockpot Pork Chops with your favorite sides!
This comforting meal is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While bone-in pork chops are recommended for their flavor and moisture, you can also use boneless pork chops or even pork loin. Just keep an eye on the cooking time—boneless chops may cook a bit faster.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water, but you might want to add extra seasonings to enhance the flavor. If you have any stock available, that works great too!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pork chops should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Crockpot?
Yes, you can! Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers can be added for a complete meal. Just chop them into chunks and place them in the crockpot before adding the pork chops. You might need to extend the cooking time slightly if you add larger amounts of veggies.