This recipe for Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops with Potatoes is a real winner! Juicy pork chops slow-cooked with tender potatoes create a comforting and simple meal that feels like a hug from your kitchen.
Honestly, the best part is how easy it is. Just toss everything in the crock pot, and let it do its magic while you relax! Perfect for busy days or when you want to impress without the stress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops stay juicier during cooking. You can use boneless chops, but they may cook faster. Just adjust the cook time if needed.
Red Potatoes: I love red potatoes for their creamy texture, but you can swap them for Yukon Golds or Russets, which will work just as well. Just remember to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. If you’re not a fan of onion, you can leave it out or even use shallots for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a good substitute. Use about 1 tsp in place of fresh garlic.
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium chicken broth for seasoning control. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth can be a lovely alternative to keep it plant-based.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Perfectly Tender?
To get tender pork chops, searing them first is important. This locks in moisture and adds flavor. Heat your olive oil until hot, but not smoking, then sear each chop for three minutes per side. This step is simple but gives you juicy results!
- Pat the pork chops dry to achieve a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; work in batches if needed.
- Ultimately, let the crock pot do the rest. Cooking on low for 6-7 hours is great for breaking down tough meat.
Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 4-5 medium red potatoes, quartered
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then 6-7 hours of cooking on low (3-4 hours on high) in the crock pot. Perfect for a hands-off dinner—you can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice, golden sear. Season both sides of the chops generously with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and parsley. This will add lots of flavors!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Layer the Vegetables:
In your slow cooker, spread the quartered red potatoes and chopped onions evenly. These will be the base for your pork chops and will soak up wonderful flavors as they cook.
4. Add Garlic:
Sprinkle the minced garlic right on top of the potatoes and onions. Garlic brings in a delicious aroma and flavor to the pot!
5. Add the Pork Chops:
Now, place the seared pork chops on top of the vegetables in the crock pot. They’ll sit nicely and keep each other company while they cook!
6. Pour in the Broth:
Slowly pour the chicken broth over everything in the crock pot. This will help keep the pork moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
7. Cook:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork should be very tender and the potatoes cooked through by the end.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, you can garnish with some fresh parsley if you like. Serve this comforting meal hot and enjoy the wonderful flavors of your Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops with Potatoes!
This dish is perfect for busy nights and will fill you up without much fuss. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops with Potatoes
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! While bone-in chops tend to be juicier, boneless pork chops will work too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster—check for doneness after about 2.5 to 3 hours on high heat.
What If I Don’t Have Red Potatoes?
No problem! You can substitute red potatoes with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into equal-sized pieces for even cooking. The texture will still be creamy and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the pork moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots, green beans, or mushrooms. Just keep in mind that firmer vegetables may need a bit longer to cook, so add them in with the potatoes for the best results.
