Crock Pot Pork Chops
An easy recipe that produces tender pork chops with a wonderful gravy. I used 3/4-inch thick center-cut pork chops and browned them first. You may increase the amount of pork chops and double the sauce recipe. This can also be made in the oven for a shorter time.
An easy recipe that produces tender pork chops with a wonderful gravy. I used 3/4-inch thick center-cut pork chops and browned them first. You may increase the amount of pork chops and double the sauce recipe. This can also be made in the oven for a shorter time.
- Carbohydrate 17.2377719117647 g
- Cholesterol 72.5749333333333 mg
- Fat 7.22677816666667 g
- Fiber 0.556708345472813 g
- Protein 25.568338 g
- Saturated Fat 2.48914433333333 g
- Serving Size 1 1 pork chop (176g)
- Sodium 1204.843 mg
- Sugar 16.6810635662919 g
- Trans Fat 0.718871666666665 g
- Calories 235 calories
Step-by-step
- Place the pork chops in the crock pot.
- Sprinkle with onions and garlic over and around the chops.
- In a bowl mix together all remaining ingredients except the salt; pour over the chops.
- Cook on low setting for about 7 hours or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender (cooking time will vary slightly depending on the size of your pork chops).
- Season with salt to taste if desired.
- Serve over rice.
My Simple Crock Pot Pork Chop Recipe: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present question: "What's for dinner?" I need recipes that are quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. That's where my go-to Crock Pot Pork Chops come in. This recipe is a lifesaver, transforming humble pork chops into a tender, flavorful masterpiece with minimal effort.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. No fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques – just a few pantry staples and a slow cooker working its magic. I typically brown the pork chops beforehand for a little extra depth of flavor, but even that step is optional if you're truly short on time. The slow cooker does all the work, braising the pork chops in a rich, savory sauce that's perfect for spooning over fluffy rice or mashed potatoes. The aroma alone is enough to make your family anticipate dinner with excitement. I often double the recipe, enough for leftovers for packed lunches or a quick weeknight meal. It’s incredibly versatile!
The Secret to Tender, Juicy Pork Chops: The key to this recipe is the low and slow cooking method. The crock pot allows the pork chops to cook gently, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy meat. The sauce, a simple blend of ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes (optional, but highly recommended!), adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the pork perfectly. I've experimented with different variations, sometimes adding a touch of apple cider vinegar for extra tang, other times incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a richer, more umami flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference – a pinch of thyme or rosemary would also work beautifully.
More than just a meal: This recipe is more than just a dinner; it's a symbol of efficiency and deliciousness. It represents my desire to balance my career, family life, and my passion for home-cooked meals. It’s about finding joy in the simple things, like the comforting aroma filling my kitchen as the pork chops simmer away, promising a satisfying and delicious meal at the end of a long day. Knowing that a hearty, flavorful dinner awaits my family, ready to be served within minutes of our arrival, eases the pressure and allows us to focus on what truly matters: spending quality time together.
Beyond the practicality, this Crock Pot Pork Chop recipe is a testament to the power of simple cooking. It proves that delicious, home-cooked meals don't require hours of slaving over a hot stove. With minimal preparation, and a slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, anyone can create a satisfying and flavorful dish that the entire family will enjoy. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, there's always time for a little bit of culinary magic.
Beyond the Recipe: Tips and Variations
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: I generally use boneless pork chops for convenience, but bone-in chops will add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chops may require a bit longer to cook through.
- Thick vs. Thin Chops: The thickness of your pork chops will impact cooking time. Thicker chops will need longer to cook. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Slow Cooker Size: The size of your slow cooker may also influence cooking time. If you have a smaller slow cooker, you might need to cook in batches.
- Serving Suggestions: While I love serving these pork chops over rice, they also pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
- Make it a Meal Prep Staple: Double (or even triple!) the recipe and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. These pork chops are just as delicious reheated!
This Crock Pot Pork Chop recipe is my go-to weeknight dinner, and I hope it becomes yours too. It's a versatile, easy, and delicious recipe that's perfect for busy families who want to enjoy a flavorful and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!
