These Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops are juicy and flavorful, covered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Just set it and forget it while it cooks to perfection!
I love how simple this meal is! Coming home to tender pork chops and a rich sauce feels like a warm hug after a long day. Pair with mashed potatoes for a tasty dinner! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are the best option for tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops work too, although they might need less cooking time. You can also substitute pork loin or even chicken breasts if you prefer.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth lets you control the salt level. You can swap it for vegetable broth or even water, but this may affect the flavor a bit. For a richer taste, use homemade broth if you have it!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or evaporated milk. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work well, but it will change the flavor slightly. Don’t forget to adjust seasoning based on what you use!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese really elevates the sauce, but pre-grated will work in a pinch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops before slow cooking helps lock in moisture and adds depth to the flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet without overcrowding. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them, so they get a nice golden crust.
- Flip and repeat on the other side. This browning step is key to more flavor in the final dish.
- After searing, transfer the chops directly to the slow cooker; no need to clean the skillet!
By following these steps for searing, your pork chops will have a wonderful texture and taste once they’re finished cooking in the slow cooker.
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, with a cooking time of 4 to 6 hours in the slow cooker. It’s a perfect dish to set up in the morning, allowing you to come home to a warm and comforting dinner, all while the house smells amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This will add flavor to your meat right from the start.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they get a beautiful golden brown color. This part helps lock in the juices and flavor. After searing, remove them from the heat.
3. Place in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared pork chops into the slow cooker, making sure they are nicely arranged for even cooking.
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until well combined.
5. Pour the Sauce Over the Chops:
Take the garlic Parmesan mixture and pour it over the pork chops in the slow cooker, making sure they are well coated. This sauce is delicious and will flavor the pork as it cooks.
6. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 4-6 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender the pork will be. Just let it simmer and absorb all that yummy flavor!
7. Thicken the Sauce (if needed):
After cooking, if you find the sauce is too thin for your liking, carefully remove the pork chops. Mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water until smooth, then stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker. Switch the slow cooker to high and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens up.
8. Serve:
Once thickened, return the pork chops to the sauce. Spoon some of that garlic Parmesan sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Now, it’s time to enjoy!
9. Choose Your Sides:
These pork chops are fabulous served with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, creamy slow cooker pork chops with garlic Parmesan sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-in or Boneless Pork Chops?
You can use either! Bone-in pork chops add more flavor and moisture, while boneless chops are a tad quicker to cook. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as boneless chops may need about 30 minutes less in the slow cooker.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For the Parmesan, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste!
What Should I Do If the Sauce Is Too Thin?
If your sauce turns out thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until it thickens to your liking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
