These easy slow cooker pork chops are tender and delicious, swimming in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner without much fuss!
What I love most is how the slow cooker does all the work. Just toss in the ingredients and forget about it! Serve it over pasta or rice for a hearty meal that feels special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in chops for this recipe because the bone adds extra flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless or thinly cut chops, just adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free choice, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best for a strong flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. Pre-grated cheese is convenient but check for additives that might affect melting.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is delicious, but store-bought works just fine. For a lighter option, use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if substituting.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork Chops in the Slow Cooker?
Getting tender pork chops is all about cooking them at a low temperature for a longer time. Here’s how to ensure they turn out just right:
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. This prevents overcooking.
- Searing the chops before cooking helps to lock in flavor, but if you’re short on time, skip this step.
- Keep the lid closed while cooking. It allows the flavors to meld and keeps moisture in.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with juicy, flavorful pork chops every time!
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Creamy Garlic Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and will cook for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in your slow cooker. It’s the perfect meal to set and forget while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by sprinkling the pork chops with salt, pepper, dried basil, and dried thyme on both sides. This will give them lots of flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step is optional but really enhances the flavor.
3. Transfer to the Slow Cooker:
Carefully place the seared pork chops into the slow cooker. No need to clean the skillet just yet; we’ll use it again!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard. Give it a good whisk until everything is combined and bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. Pour Sauce Over Chops:
Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the pork chops in the slow cooker. Make sure they are well covered!
6. Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The pork chops are done when they are tender and cooked through.
7. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the flour with a small amount of cold water until smooth. Stir this into the sauce about 30 minutes before the cooking time ends. Let it cook until thickened to your liking!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve these delicious creamy garlic Parmesan pork chops over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to enjoy every bit of that mouthwatering sauce!
Enjoy your tender and flavorful slow cooker pork chops bathed in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness at the 2 to 2.5-hour mark on high heat or around 3 to 4 hours on low.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just note that the flavor will be slightly different!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
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 or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans can be added to the slow cooker along with the pork chops. Just chop them into uniform pieces and layer them under the chops to ensure they cook evenly.
