Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops
Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy dinner recipe that will leave your taste buds begging for more? Look no further than these mouthwatering slow cooker smothered pork chops. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to enjoy a hearty and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender pork chops, savory gravy, and aromatic spices will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving some down-home comfort food, these slow cooker smothered pork chops are sure to satisfy. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful pork chops that practically melt in your mouth. Plus, the convenience of using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, leaving you with more time to relax or attend to other tasks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why this slow cooker smothered pork chops recipe is a must-try:
1. Easy and Convenient: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious meal on the table with little effort. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, making this recipe perfect for busy individuals or families.
2. Tender and Flavorful: The long cooking time allows the pork chops to become incredibly tender and infused with the rich flavors of the gravy and seasonings. Each bite is a burst of savory goodness.
3. Versatile: This recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. You can adjust the seasonings, add extra vegetables, or even swap out the pork chops for chicken or beef if desired.
Ingredients
For this delectable slow cooker smothered pork chops recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 bone-in pork chops
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a tantalizing meal of slow cooker smothered pork chops:
Step 1: Brown the Pork Chops
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Brown the pork chops in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Once browned, transfer the pork chops to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet used for browning the pork chops, add the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker, arranging them on top of the pork chops.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and chicken broth until well combined and no lumps remain. Pour this mixture over the pork chops, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker. Ensure that the liquid covers the pork chops completely.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork when done.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pork chops are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the delicious gravy, onions, and garlic over the pork chops. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve these succulent slow cooker smothered pork chops with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Success
Follow these expert tips to ensure your slow cooker smothered pork chops turn out perfectly every time:
– For an extra flavor boost, marinate the pork chops in the seasoning mixture for 30 minutes to overnight before browning them.
– If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a little chicken broth to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
– Use bone-in pork chops for the best flavor and tenderness. The bones add richness to the dish and help keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.
– If you’re short on time, you can brown the pork chops and sauté the onions and garlic the night before. Store them in the refrigerator overnight, and in the morning, simply transfer everything to the slow cooker and proceed with the recipe.
Variations and Substitutions
This slow cooker smothered pork chops recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences:
– Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the pork chops with thick slices of tofu or seitan. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
– Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the gravy.
– Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture for some heat.
– Herb Variations: Experiment with different dried herbs such as oregano, basil, or sage for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These delectable slow cooker smothered pork chops pair well with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
– Serve the pork chops over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.
– Pair them with a side of steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or buttery corn on the cob.
– Enjoy them alongside a fresh garden salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
– Accompany the dish with a glass of fruity red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot.
FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about slow cooker smothered pork chops:
1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
While bone-in pork chops are recommended for the best flavor and tenderness, you can use boneless pork chops if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook slightly faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover smothered pork chops for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the pork chops in the refrigerator overnight and heat them in a covered dish in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I use a different meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs, beef chuck roast, or even lamb chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.
Final Thoughts
With its tantalizing flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these slow cooker smothered pork chops are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. The convenience of the slow cooker, combined with the rich and savory gravy, makes this dish a winner in terms of both taste and convenience. Give it a try, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!
Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops
Delicious and tender slow cooker smothered pork chops cooked in a savory gravy with onions and garlic. Perfect for a comforting and easy dinner option.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Brown the pork chops in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Once browned, transfer the pork chops to the slow cooker.
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In the same skillet used for browning the pork chops, add the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker, arranging them on top of the pork chops.
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In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and chicken broth until well combined and no lumps remain. Pour this mixture over the pork chops, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker. Ensure that the liquid covers the pork chops completely.
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Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork when done.
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Once the pork chops are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the delicious gravy, onions, and garlic over the pork chops. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve these succulent slow cooker smothered pork chops with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!
