Slow Cooker Pork Chops Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe is the perfect choice. Packed with flavor and requiring minimal effort, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you simply want a satisfying home-cooked meal. Using a slow cooker ensures tender, juicy pork chops in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Here’s everything you need to know to make this delicious recipe at home.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Pork Chops

4 boneless pork chops, each about 1 inch thick

Butter

2 tablespoons of butter

Garlic

4 cloves of garlic, minced

Heavy Cream

1 cup of heavy cream

Parmesan Cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Chicken Broth

1/2 cup of chicken broth

Salt and Pepper

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Parsley

Fresh parsley for garnish

Prep Time

The preparation for this recipe is simple and quick. It will take about 10 minutes to get everything ready for the slow cooker. You’ll need to gather your ingredients, season the pork chops, and make the garlic Parmesan sauce.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for this dish is approximately 6 hours on low in the slow cooker. The total time required from start to finish, including preparation, is around 6 hours and 10 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for a small family dinner or a meal with friends.

This recipe is an effortless way to enjoy tender pork chops with a luxurious and flavorful garlic Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the simplicity and taste of this dish make it a must-try. Let your slow cooker do the work while you savor the enticing aromas and look forward to a satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh parsley, serve, and enjoy!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Peel and mince the garlic cloves, ensuring they are finely chopped. Gather all your ingredients so they’re ready for use.

Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once heated, sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. These will not cook fully at this stage—this is just for color and flavor.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Then, pour in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth. Stir well until the Parmesan has melted, and the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 4: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly coat the bottom of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Arrange the browned pork chops at the bottom in a single layer.

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce evenly over the pork chops in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Set and Cook

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

Once the cooking time is over, use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If they haven’t reached this temperature, allow additional cooking time.

Step 8: Serve

Remove the pork chops carefully from the slow cooker, as they may be very tender. Pour additional sauce over the top and serve with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

Notes

Note 1: Thickening the Sauce

If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the sauce to a small saucepan after cooking. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Note 2: Adjusting the Flavor

Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese depending on your preference.

Note 3: Substitute for Pork Chops

This recipe is versatile and can also be made with chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

Note 4: Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Note 5: Freezing the Meal

You can freeze the cooked pork chops and sauce for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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Cook Techniques

Prepping the Pork Chops

Ensure your pork chops are properly seasoned with salt and pepper on both sides before adding to the slow cooker.

Searing the Pork Chops

For additional flavor, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet with a little oil for about 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve a golden-brown color before adding them to the slow cooker.

Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and cornstarch to create a creamy, flavorful sauce. Adjust thickness by adding a small amount of broth or cornstarch if needed.

Slow Cooking Process

Place the pork chops into the slow cooker, then pour the prepared garlic Parmesan sauce over them. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours to achieve tender and flavorful results.

Serving Recommendations

Once cooked, allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes. Serve them with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to pair with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

FAQ

Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless pork chops?

Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used for this recipe. However, cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, and the result may be even more flavorful due to the bone.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream in the sauce?

While heavy cream provides a rich and creamy texture, milk can be used as a substitute. However, the sauce may be less thick and creamy.

What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken the sauce?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour to thicken the sauce. Make a slurry by combining equal parts of flour and water before adding it to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and nutritional yeast. However, the flavor will differ slightly.

Is it possible to cook this recipe without searing the pork chops first?

Yes, you can skip the searing step if you’re short on time. However, searing adds additional flavor by caramelizing the surface of the pork chops.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, the leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How do I make the sauce thicker if it’s too thin after cooking?

If the sauce is too thin, create a slurry by mixing a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a family dinner, this recipe combines tender pork chops with a rich and creamy sauce. It’s easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

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