Slow Cooker Pork Chops: Comfort Food Made Easy
Rich onion gravy and fresh thyme meld for a hassle-free, flavor-packed meal.
Slow Cooker Pork Chops: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Busy Nights
When it comes to easy and satisfying weeknight dinners, few dishes match the cozy appeal of slow cooker pork chops. Smothered with a rich onion gravy and infused with fresh thyme, this recipe transforms simple pork chops into an irresistibly tender, flavor-packed meal that practically cooks itself. If your slow cooker is collecting dust, it’s time to pull it out—not just for soups and stews, but for a hearty dish that delivers nostalgia and convenience in every bite.
Why the Slow Cooker Shines for Pork Chops
The slow cooker isn’t just for cold-weather meals or one-pot wonders. Its low-and-slow cooking method guarantees that pork chops stay moist and develop deep flavors—all while saving you precious kitchen time. Unlike quick pan-seared methods, cooking pork chops in a slow cooker with aromatics and sauce ensures you’ll get fall-apart tender meat with minimal effort and clean-up.
- Effortless meal prep: Combine ingredients and let the cooker do the work.
- Enhanced flavors: Long, gentle cooking melds herbs, onion, and spices into the chops.
- Versatile serving: Pair with noodles, mashed potatoes, or a side of seasonal vegetables.
- Consistent results: Avoids overcooked, dry pork—every time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Can I put raw pork in the slow cooker?
Yes, it is safe to put raw pork into the slow cooker. However, searing the pork chops first is highly recommended. Searing not only adds a browned, savory crust but also boosts the depth of flavor in the finished meal.
Do I need to add liquid to slow cook pork?
Absolutely. Adding liquid—such as broth, sauces, or soups—prevents the pork from drying out and burning, and creates a flavorful sauce or gravy. In this recipe, a seasoned onion gravy made from cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and aromatics envelops the pork as it cooks.
What is the safe temperature for pork?
The USDA recommends 145°F (63°C) as the safe internal temperature for pork. Allowing the meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking ensures juicy, safe pork chops.
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes! While this recipe calls for thick, boneless loin chops, bone-in pork chops work well too. They may need a few extra minutes of cooking but often deliver even more flavor and tenderness.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – for dredging
- 1/2 tsp seasoned salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1/2 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 8 boneless pork loin chops (1-inch thick, about 3 pounds total)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 3 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- Cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes, for serving
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Dredge:
- In a pie plate or shallow bowl, thoroughly combine the flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, cayenne, and chopped thyme leaves.
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Dredge both sides of each chop in the flour mixture, shaking off excess and setting aside on a plate.
- Sear the Pork Chops:
- Heat the vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high.
- In batches if needed, sear the pork chops for about 3 minutes per side—just until a golden crust forms. Transfer seared chops to a clean plate. Don’t crowd the skillet; searing in two batches may be necessary for even browning.
- Sauté the Onions:
- Add sliced onions to the same pan and cook, stirring often, for about 5 minutes until golden and softened. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these add flavor to the dish!
- Remove from heat.
- Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
- In the base of a 6- to 8-quart slow cooker, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce until blended.
- Stir in sautéed onions and add sprigs of fresh thyme.
- Carefully nestle the seared pork chops into the broth mixture so they are mostly submerged.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 1 hour, then reduce to LOW and continue cooking for 2 more hours. The pork will be fork-tender and the gravy rich and aromatic.
- Serve:
- Plate pork chops and spoon generous amounts of the onion gravy over the top. Garnish with more fresh thyme leaves if desired.
- Serve over buttered egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.
What others are reading
Serving Suggestions & Tips
- Classic pairings: These pork chops shine atop creamy mashed potatoes or broad egg noodles, which absorb the luscious gravy beautifully.
- Vegetable sides: Serve with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple mixed salad to balance the richness.
- Extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the dredge for a subtle twist. A splash of white wine in the gravy base creates additional depth.
- Reheating: Leftovers are easy to warm in a microwave or gently simmered in a skillet, with a splash of broth to loosen the gravy as needed.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Substitutions
- Prep ahead: You can dredge and sear the pork, and slice onions up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate. Start the cooker when you’re home and ready for dinner.
- Storing leftovers: Allow pork and gravy to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Pork chops in gravy freeze well. Store portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Substitute suggestions: Bone-in pork chops, pork shoulder steaks, or even chicken thighs can be used. Cream of chicken soup works in place of mushroom soup if preferred.
Nutritional Information
| Serving Size | 1 pork chop with gravy |
|---|---|
| Calories | 135 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 449mg |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 5g |
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary by brands and portion size.
Tips & Tricks for Best Results
- Choose thick-cut pork chops: Thicker cuts hold up better during slow cooking and result in juicier, more robust chops without drying out.
- Sear, don’t skip: Browning the meat isn’t just for looks—it adds essential, savory flavor and helps develop the finished gravy’s depth.
- Layer for flavor: Place onions in first, under or among the pork chops, to ensure even softening and sweet flavor throughout.
- Check temperature: For perfectly cooked pork, confirm the internal temp reaches 145°F. Use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Keep warm setting: Once the pork is done, the ‘keep warm’ function can hold them until dinner time, though extended warming may thicken the gravy.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
- Mushroom lovers: Stir in fresh sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthier flavor and extra texture.
- For extra richness: Swap half of the chicken broth for dry white wine or heavy cream.
- Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the gravy for gentle heat.
- Vegetarian adaptation: Substitute large slices of portobello mushrooms or seitan for pork and use vegetable broth and a vegetarian ‘cream of’ soup.
More Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long do pork chops need in the slow cooker?
A: On high, pork chops become tender in about 1 hour; on low, 2 additional hours makes them ultra-soft and ideal for soaking up gravy. Do not overcook beyond this point, or they may start to fall apart excessively.
Q: Is it necessary to use cream of mushroom soup?
A: Cream of mushroom soup creates a creamy, savory base, but you may substitute cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade white sauce to suit your preference.
Q: My gravy seems thin—how can I thicken it?
A: If your gravy is too loose, remove the pork chops once cooked and whisk in a small slurry of cornstarch and water. Cook on HIGH for 10-15 minutes until thickened, then return the pork to the sauce.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger slow cooker and avoid stacking the pork thicker than two layers. Double all the other ingredients for consistent saucy comfort.
Q: Can I prep this meal in advance for meal planning?
A: Absolutely. Sear, sauté, and assemble as directed, then refrigerate overnight and cook just before dinner the next day.
Final Thoughts: Slow Cooker Pork Chops for Every Home Cook
Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a busy weeknight when time is tight, this slow cooker pork chop recipe will become a trusted favorite. The method is foolproof, customizable, and yields results far superior to pan-cooked alternatives. Give it a try, and treat your family to a comforting meal with minimal kitchen work. The slow cooker revolutionizes classic comfort food, ensuring every bite is tender, juicy, and packed with homestyle flavor.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a37150065/slow-cooker-pork-chops-recipe/
- https://jenaroundtheworld.com/pioneer-woman-slow-cooker-pork-chops/
- https://dk.pinterest.com/pin/70437489409057/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a37150065/slow-cooker-pork-chops-recipe/?date=091621
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g39398803/pork-chop-recipes/
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