This dish features tender pork chops cooked slowly with creamy garlic sauce and potatoes. It’s a cozy meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days!
I love tossing everything into the crockpot and letting it do its magic. It fills the house with amazing smells, and you get to enjoy a delicious meal without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add extra flavor. If you prefer boneless, they work too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops cook faster.
Potatoes: I used medium potatoes for their creaminess. You can substitute with Yukon gold or red potatoes, which also hold up well during cooking. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms enhance the dish, but if you don’t have them, try canned mushrooms in a pinch. They won’t have the same texture, but they’ll still add flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. Coconut milk or cashew cream can give a nice richness without dairy.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork Chops in the Crockpot?
To make sure your pork chops are tender, it’s essential to cook them low and slow. Here’s how to do it:
- Sear First: Browning the chops in a skillet helps seal in juices. This step is crucial for flavor.
- Crockpot Layers: Start with potatoes and onions at the bottom. This prevents them from becoming mushy as they absorb the juices.
- Cooking Time: Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer time allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches 145°F for safety while remaining juicy.
Taking these steps will help you achieve perfectly tender and delicious pork chops every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Potatoes in Crockpot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Vegetables:
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced into wedges
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, followed by 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Just prepare the ingredients, set up your crockpot, and let the flavors develop slowly while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This simple step will enhance the flavor of the dish.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned, but not fully cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Now, place the sliced potatoes and thinly sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot. This forms a lovely base for the dish.
4. Add the Pork Chops:
Place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes and onions in the crockpot. This will ensure the chops stay juicy and flavorful as they cook.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms become softened and fragrant.
6. Prepare the Sauce Mixture:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and garlic, stirring to coat. Cook for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Then, gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream, dried thyme, dried parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Combine Everything in the Crockpot:
Pour the creamy mushroom and garlic sauce evenly over the pork chops and potatoes in the crockpot, covering everything well.
8. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and the potatoes are cooked through. The flavors will meld beautifully during cooking.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the pork chops hot, topped with the creamy garlic mushroom sauce and alongside the delicious potatoes. Enjoy your comforting crockpot meal!
FAQ: Easy Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Potatoes in Crockpot
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just remember that they will cook faster than bone-in chops, so check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on high or 5 hours on low.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works perfectly. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or cashew cream, which will add a creamy texture without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the crockpot the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and then simply plug it in the next day to cook. Just be sure to keep the sauce separate if you want the best texture!
