These slow cooker pork chops are so tender, and the garlic parmesan sauce is creamy and delicious! Just set it and forget it—perfect for a busy day!
I love coming home to a warm meal waiting for me. Plus, the smell makes my mouth water—my family always comes running when it’s time to eat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for their flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find them, boneless pork chops or even pork loin will work. Just adjust cooking time as boneless chops cook faster.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich texture, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be a quick substitute. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key! In a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese. Just note that the flavor will change slightly.
Chicken Broth: For a lighter flavor, swap in vegetable broth; just be sure it’s low sodium if that’s a concern. You can also use water if you’re in a tight spot!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops are Perfectly Tender?
To achieve tender and juicy pork chops in the slow cooker, proper seasoning and cooking time are crucial. Start by seasoning your chops well to enhance flavor.
- Searing: Searing the chops first locks in moisture and adds a nice crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Low and Slow: Cooking on LOW for 4-5 hours allows the pork to become tender without drying out. If you’re short on time, HIGH for 2-3 hours works too.
- Resting: Let the chops rest briefly after cooking to keep them juicy before serving.
These steps will help you serve the most delicious pork chops you’ll ever have! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Thickening the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and will cook in your slow cooker for about 4-5 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH. Just set it, relax, and let the slow cooker do all the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance their flavor as they cook!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds great flavor! Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared pork chops to the slow cooker and pour the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over them. Add the butter on top for extra richness.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until the pork chops are tender and cooked through. You’ll know they are ready when they easily pull apart with a fork!
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Once the pork chops are done, carefully transfer them to a serving dish and cover to keep them warm. To thicken the sauce, stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker, then cook on HIGH for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour the thickened sauce over the pork chops, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. This meal goes perfectly with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delightful dinner!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just make sure to reduce the cooking time slightly since they tend to cook faster than bone-in chops.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the meat.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or add in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic Parmesan sauce for extra heat.
