This easy crock pot recipe features juicy pork chops and tender potatoes, all cooked together in a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner!
Honestly, I love how the slow cooker does all the work. Just toss everything in, and a few hours later, you’ve got a hearty meal that’s ready to enjoy with the family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work best, but bone-in chops can add extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try loin chops. For a vegetarian twist, consider using hearty vegetables like mushrooms or portobello caps.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this dish, but you can also use Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes. If you’re watching carbs, cauliflower florets can be an excellent low-carb substitute.
Onion: A medium onion adds nice flavor. You can substitute it with shallots for a milder taste or skip it altogether if you’re not a fan.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is fantastic, but low-sodium or vegetable broth also works well. For a twist, you could use a can of cream of chicken soup as a base.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops before placing them in the crock pot is important! This step locks in juices and adds flavor through caramelization. Heat oil in a skillet and sear each chop for 2-3 minutes on each side until nice and brown.
- Season the pork chops with spices before searing.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning while achieving a golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary.
This extra step is well worth it for that rich taste in your dish!
Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and then cooks in the crock pot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. This makes it a great meal to prep in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. If you’d like, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step adds a lot of flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time!
2. Prepare the Crock Pot:
While the pork chops are browning, spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease it with oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes and onions at the bottom of the crock pot. This will create a nice base. Then, place the seared pork chops on top of this layer. Don’t forget to add the minced garlic over the chops for extra flavor! Finally, cover the pork chops with the remaining potatoes and onions.
4. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth evenly over all the layers in the crock pot. This will keep everything moist and flavorful as it cooks.
5. Cook the Dish:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the pork chops are tender and fully cooked through, and the potatoes are soft.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once it’s done cooking, you can serve it hot! Spoon some of the delicious cooking juices over the pork chops and potatoes. For a fresh touch, feel free to sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.
Enjoy your comforting, hands-off meal featuring tender pork chops and delicious potatoes cooked to perfection! Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking. If you’re using frozen chops, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave before adding them to the crock pot. Cooking frozen pork chops without thawing may result in uneven cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Cooking Time?
If you prefer to cook on high, you can do so for 3-4 hours. For a more tender pork chop, sticking to the low setting for 6-7 hours is ideal. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safety!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little chicken broth if they seem dry. They make for a great meal prep option!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, green beans, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly with the potatoes and pork.
