These Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor thanks to a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Just throw them in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I mean, you can kick back while the magic happens. Plus, I like to serve mine with mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I like using bone-in chops for flavor and juiciness. Boneless pork chops can be used too, but they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. Just remember that the sauce will be less rich and creamy, but still delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and melting. If you’re in a pinch, use pre-grated cheese or even Pecorino Romano for a different taste. Just not the stuff in the green can!
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for flavor, but feel free to substitute with vegetable oil or butter for searing.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Sealing in the juices is key to mouthwatering pork chops. Start with a hot skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully lay in the chops. Don’t touch them for 2-3 minutes! This builds a nice crust.
- Flip the chops and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove and allow them to rest while you prepare the sauce; this keeps them juicy!
Taking these steps will bring out the flavors and tenderness you want in your slow-cooked pork chops.
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops with 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:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 4-6 hours of cooking time on low (or 2-3 hours on high) in the slow cooker. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal, allowing you to enjoy your day while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of each pork chop generously with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. This will add lots of flavor to your meat!
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the pork chops to the hot skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine and scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the skillet.
4. Adding the Parmesan:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Slow Cooking:
Transfer the seared pork chops to your slow cooker and pour the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over them evenly. Secure the lid and set the slow cooker to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the pork chops are nice and tender.
6. Final Touches:
Once the cooking time is up, give the pork chops a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them up with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies, and enjoy!
This recipe results in tender, juicy pork chops submerged in a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with garlic and Parmesan flavor. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that your family will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just as well, but they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so check them for doneness a bit earlier.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit less creamy! For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the slow cooker for a complete meal. Just cut them into uniform sizes and add them with the pork chops for delicious results!
