These slow cooker pork chops are cooked to perfection in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce that’s rich and tasty. Just set it and forget it for a hearty meal!
I love how simple it is—just toss everything in and let the slow cooker work its magic. The smell while it cooks is enough to make anyone hungry! 🐷✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for keeping the meat juicy. However, you can use boneless chops if that’s what you have. Just remember, they may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just know that it might change the flavor a bit!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan twist) could work. Keep in mind the taste will vary a bit depending on what you choose.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is a good option to control saltiness. If you’re out of broth, water will work in a pinch, but it will be less flavorful. Adding some extra spices can help make up for it!
How Do I Get Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing adds flavor and creates a nice crust that makes a difference in your dish. Follow these steps to get it just right:
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps them brown nicely.
- Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and spices before placing them in a hot skillet.
- Use medium-high heat with a mix of olive oil and butter for flavor and a good sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use tongs to flip gently!
After you sear them, let them rest before placing them in the slow cooker. This keeps them juicy!
Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops in Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time plus cooking time of 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker. Total time will vary depending on how long you let the pork chops cook, but the hands-on time is minimal, making it perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, thyme, and onion powder. This adds a lot of flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and butter until hot. Then, add the pork chops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, carefully remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine and scrape up all the delicious brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is where the flavor lives!
4. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to mix until it melts and the sauce is smooth. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Slow Cook the Dish:
Transfer the creamy sauce to your slow cooker. Place the seared pork chops into the sauce, making sure they’re mostly submerged. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker sauce, about 30 minutes before serving, mix some cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When the pork chops are tender and cooked through, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Spoon that creamy garlic parmesan sauce generously over each chop and serve with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
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 instead of bone-in. Just remember that boneless chops may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a little earlier to avoid overcooking!
How Can I Thicken the Sauce Without Cornstarch?
If you prefer not to use cornstarch, all-purpose flour works great as an alternative. Simply whisk it with a little cold water to create a slurry, and add it to the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking, just like you would with cornstarch.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
These pork chops are delicious served over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, as they soak up the creamy garlic parmesan sauce perfectly. Roasted vegetables or a simple salad on the side also make great accompaniments!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can sear the pork chops and prepare the sauce in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just combine them in the slow cooker and follow the remaining instructions. This dish still tastes fantastic when reheated!
