These Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops are tender and bathed in a creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the magic while you relax!
Honestly, they’re so good that you might find yourself licking the plate clean! I love serving this with a side of mashed potatoes to soak up all that tasty sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and help keep the meat moist. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless or pork loin chops will work too, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. You can substitute with vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter flavor or if you’re cooking for someone avoiding meat.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for lighter options, half-and-half or milk can be used, but the sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or cashew cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated versions. For a different taste, you can substitute Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano, which will add a unique flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender and Juicy?
The key to tender pork chops is not overcooking them. Searing adds flavor and color, but cooking times in the slow cooker are crucial. When they reach an internal temperature of 145°F, they are perfectly cooked. Here are some tips:
- Season well before searing; this steps enhances flavor.
- Heat oil until shimmering before adding pork chops; this helps achieve a nice crust.
- Slow cook at low heat for more tender results; high heat can cook them too quickly.
Lastly, let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving; this helps juices redistribute and keeps them juicy!
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooks in the slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. That means you can set it and forget it—and come back to a warm, comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will add wonderful flavors to your meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in flavors, so don’t skip it! Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until it’s fragrant. Pay attention—it cooks quickly!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Now, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up those yummy browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds even more flavor to your dish!
5. Move to the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared pork chops into your slow cooker. Pour the garlic and chicken broth mixture over them evenly.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all combined smoothly. Then pour this creamy goodness over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
7. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The pork chops are done when they’re tender and fully cooked.
8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker sauce, once the pork chops are cooked, you can remove them from the slow cooker. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Return the pork chops to the sauce, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot. These tender pork chops are perfect over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up all that rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce!
Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than bone-in chops. Start checking for doneness around the 2-hour mark if cooking on high, or the 4-hour mark on low.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad!
