Picture this: a long, exhausting day has finally come to an end, and all you dream of is sinking your teeth into a warm, hearty meal. That’s where my Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Garlic Sauce come to the rescue! This dish transforms simple ingredients into a succulent feast, all while you relax, knowing the crock pot is doing the heavy lifting. Trust me, the aroma of savory garlic and rich cream slowly wafting through your home will have everyone flocking to the dinner table.
With a few quick preparations, you can create tender pork chops that melt in your mouth, coated in a velvety sauce that rivals any restaurant fare. Plus, it’s a family-friendly recipe that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Who needs fast food when you can whip up this comforting classic with just the touch of a button? Let’s dive in and make dinner time magical again!
Why are Crock Pot Pork Chops a must-try?
Tender, Slow-Cooked Perfection: Succulent pork chops emerge from the crock pot with a texture that practically melts in your mouth.
Effortless Gourmet Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce is a savory delight that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Time-Saving Wonder: Just set it and forget it! Enjoy more free time while your meal cooks to perfection.
Family-Friendly Feast: Even the pickiest eaters will savor these delicious chops, making it ideal for family dinners.
Versatile Pairings: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, or toss in your favorite veggies for a well-rounded meal. Discover the joy of homemade comfort with this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Crock Pot Pork Chops Ingredients
• Discover the simple ingredients for your family’s favorite meal!
For the Pork Chops
- Boneless Pork Chops – The star of the dish, providing juicy flavor; you can use bone-in for an even richer taste.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavor of your pork chops.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Olive oil – Perfect for searing the pork chops, giving them a beautiful golden crust.
- Butter – Adds a luxurious creaminess to the sauce, making every bite unforgettable.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that elevates the overall flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the sauce’s complexity and warmth.
- Chicken broth (1 cup) – Provides moisture and depth, enhancing the flavors of the creamy sauce; feel free to substitute with water if necessary.
- Heavy cream (1 cup) – Creates that dreamy, rich sauce that makes these Crock Pot Pork Chops so delicious; use half and half for a lighter option.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon, optional) – Adds a tangy kick that balances the creaminess beautifully.
For Thickening (Optional)
- Cornstarch (2 teaspoons) + water (2 teaspoons) – Ideal for thickening the sauce, creating a hearty consistency if desired.
For the Finishing Touch
- Fresh chopped parsley – A sprinkle of color and freshness that brightens the dish before serving!
How to Make Crock Pot Pork Chops
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Season the pork chops with salt and pepper, ensuring they’re generously coated for optimum flavor. Pat them dry to enhance their browning later on.
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Sear the pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat, adding olive oil. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown, then remove them from the skillet.
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Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
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Combine the Italian seasoning, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard in the skillet. Stir well to create a creamy sauce that’s full of flavor.
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Return the pork chops to the skillet, letting them simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes until they’re cooked through and the sauce slightly thickens.
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Thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch and water if desired, and add it to the skillet. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
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Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley before serving, adding a delectable pop of color and freshness to your plate.
Optional: Serve alongside mashed potatoes for an extra comforting experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Pork Chops are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce up to 24 hours in advance by combining the garlic, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard in a sealed container. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply sear your pork chops, add them to your crock pot with the prepped sauce, and let them cook until tender. This approach not only enhances the flavors but also ensures that your family enjoys a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Pork Chops?
Crafting a comforting dinner experience starts with the perfect pairings to accentuate those tender pork chops.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery flavor and smooth texture create a perfect canvas for the creamy garlic sauce.
- Garlic Green Beans: These bright, crispy veggies balance the savory richness of the pork and add a pop of freshness to your plate.
- Buttery Corn on the Cob: Juicy, sweet corn enhances the meal with a burst of flavor, complementing the salty-savory notes from the chops.
- Savory Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Creamy, cheesy pasta offers a nostalgic touch, making dinner feel like a cozy gathering at home.
- Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy garlic sauce, creating a blissful bite.
- Simple Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers add a refreshing crunch that lightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory chops, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Peach Cobbler: For dessert, a warm, fruity cobbler brings a lovely sweetness to the table, rounding off your meal on a high note.
- Chardonnay: A glass of refreshing Chardonnay complements the dish’s richness, enhancing the overall dining experience with its crisp acidity.
Crock Pot Pork Chops Variations
When it comes to crafting the perfect meal, there’s always room for your personal touch!
- Garlic Swap: Substitute garlic with shallots for a gentler, sweeter aromatic experience.
- Sauce Transformation: Use teriyaki or barbecue sauce instead of the creamy garlic sauce for a totally different flavor kick.
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap pork chops for firm tofu or jackfruit, letting them soak in the creamy sauce for a delightful plant-based edition.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic twist that elevates the entire dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the sauce for a cheesy, indulgent flavor that pairs perfectly with the pork.
- Heat it Up: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick that will warm you from the inside out.
- Citrus Brightness: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice at the end for a zesty contrast that beautifully balances richness.
- Vegetable Medley: Add chunks of carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers into the crock pot for a complete meal packed with nutrition.
Embrace the possibility of delicious discoveries as you whip up your own unique version of these Crock Pot Pork Chops!
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Pork Chops
Fridge: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they’re well-sealed to retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork chops in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Gently reheat the pork chops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture, until warmed through.
Sauce Storage: Keep the creamy sauce in a separate container and combine when reheating to ensure the sauce remains creamy and luscious.
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Pork Chops
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Searing Matters: Sear the pork chops well before slow cooking to lock in juices and enhance flavor. Avoid skipping this step for best results.
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Thaw Thoroughly: If using frozen pork chops, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking for even doneness.
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Low and Slow: Resist cooking on the high setting; low heat gives you tender Crock Pot Pork Chops that are bursting with flavor.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning in the creamy sauce while cooking; this ensures a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
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Veggie Additions: Consider adding carrots or potatoes for added texture and nutrition without compromising flavor.
Crock Pot Pork Chops Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pork chops?
Absolutely! Look for boneless pork chops that are bright pink with a bit of marbling for added flavor and tenderness. Avoid chops with dark spots or excessive liquid; these may indicate spoilage. If you prefer bone-in chops for richer flavor, make sure they are also kept refrigerated and fresh.
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How should I store leftover Crock Pot Pork Chops?
To keep your pork chops fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal the container well to maintain moisture and flavor. If you plan to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Can I freeze Crock Pot Pork Chops?
Very! To freeze your pork chops, place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Be sure to press out any excess air to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge for even reheating.
What should I do if my creamy sauce is too thin?
No worries! If your sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, you can mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Once combined, stir this into the sauce and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat to achieve a lovely, hearty consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! When preparing your Crock Pot Pork Chops, always check for allergies, particularly to mustard or dairy if using heavy cream. If you’re aiming for dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream. For pets, avoid feeding cooked pork or any seasoning used in the recipe, as they can be harmful.
Savory Crock Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Garlic Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper, ensuring they're generously coated for optimum flavor. Pat them dry to enhance their browning later on.
- Sear the pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat, adding olive oil. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they're golden brown, then remove them from the skillet.
- Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Combine the Italian seasoning, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard in the skillet. Stir to create a creamy sauce.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, letting them simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes until cooked through.
- Thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch and water if desired, and add it to the skillet. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.