These easy slow cooker pork chops are super tender and covered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce that’s simply delicious. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? I just toss everything in, and the smell that fills the house is heavenly. Enjoy it with some rice or pasta!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless chops, those will work too, but you’ll want to check cooking times as they might take less time to get tender.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really gives the best flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Just remember to adjust the amount to taste, since it’s more concentrated.
Heavy Cream: This cream adds richness but if you’re looking to lighten things up, you could use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk; however, the sauce may be less creamy. I wouldn’t replace it completely, as the sauce may not thicken properly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides lovely flavor. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute. Just keep in mind this cheese is saltier, so adjust seasoning as needed.
How Do You Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Tender in a Slow Cooker?
The key to tender pork chops in a slow cooker is taking the time to sear them first. This step locks in flavor and moisture. Here are some essential tips:
- Heat the skillet over medium-high before adding oil—this helps achieve a nice brown crust.
- Don’t crowd the pan; give each chop space. Sear a few at a time if needed.
- Once in the slow cooker, avoid lifting the lid too often as this releases heat and can extend cooking time.
For best results, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked pork chops. Enjoy the creamy goodness!
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by 4-6 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. Just sear the pork chops, mix the sauce, and let your slow cooker do the magic while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the meat right from the start!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown but not fully cooked. This step helps lock in moisture and flavor. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Then, pour in the chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor!
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let it cook for a few minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce slightly thickens. This creamy mixture will be the star of the dish!
5. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared pork chops to the slow cooker and pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over them. Make sure the chops are well coated.
6. Cook in the Slow Cooker:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 4-6 hours. The longer, the better, as it helps the chops become super tender and flavorful!
7. Thicken the Sauce (if needed):
If you find the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the sauce and cook on high for another 15 minutes until it thickens up.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your delicious pork chops warm with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the dreamy sauce. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!
This recipe results in tender pork chops drenched in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce — simple, comforting, and utterly delicious! You’ll want to make it again and again!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can substitute boneless pork chops for bone-in ones. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook faster, so check for doneness a little earlier, around the 3-4 hour mark.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce from getting too thick.
What Can I Use in Place of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a non-dairy substitute, consider using coconut cream, though this will add a different flavor to the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or green beans can be added to the slow cooker along with the pork chops. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
