These Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor thanks to a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic!
I love how simple this dish is—you can set it and forget it! Serve it with some rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that yummy sauce. What could be better? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are juicy and flavorful. If you prefer boneless, they work too but may require less cooking time. You can also use pork loin or tenderloin for a leaner option.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich sauce, but you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. Remember, coconut milk adds a different flavor, but it can be delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan packs more flavor than the pre-grated kind. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy kick. You can swap it with whole-grain mustard or even a teaspoon of regular yellow mustard if you don’t have Dijon.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking pork chops in a slow cooker is all about low and slow. To get them just right, ensure you season them well and start with a good sear. This locks in moisture and enhances flavor. Follow these steps:
- After seasoning, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side. This step shouldn’t be skipped!
- Make the sauce right in the skillet where you seared the chops to capture all those delicious brown bits.
- Keep the slow cooker covered while cooking to maintain steam and moisture.
For tender pork chops, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F when they’re done. Let them rest a few minutes before serving! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time to get everything ready and seared, plus a cooking time of 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker. Once it’s all mixed together and heated, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful pork chops ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and sear them until they turn golden brown on each side, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. After searing, carefully transfer them to the slow cooker.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the cheese has melted and the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
4. Pour the Sauce over Pork Chops:
Pour the delicious sauce over the pork chops in the slow cooker, covering them well.
5. Cook in the Slow Cooker:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the pork chops are tender and cooked through. Perfect for those busy days!
6. Thicken the Sauce (if needed):
If after cooking the sauce is too thin for your liking, remove the pork chops and stir in the cornstarch slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once the pork chops are done, return them to the sauce. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that extra touch!
Enjoy these tender pork chops in a luscious, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will cook a bit faster, so check for doneness at around 2-2.5 hours on high or 4 hours on low. Make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, try a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to the sauce to keep it creamy!
What Should I Serve with These Pork Chops?
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious garlic parmesan sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal!
