This easy crock pot dish features tender pork chops and creamy potatoes that cook together in one pot. It’s a big hug in a bowl for your taste buds!
I love how I can just toss everything in the crock pot and forget about it. Perfect for busy days! Plus, the house smells amazing while it’s cooking—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. Bone-in often has more flavor, but boneless is easier to handle. If you’re avoiding pork, try chicken thighs or beef stew meat instead.
Potatoes: I prefer Russet potatoes for their fluffy texture, but you can use Yukon Golds for a creamier consistency. Sweet potatoes can also be great for a different flavor twist!
Onion and Garlic: Yellow onions work best for their balanced sweetness. If you’re not a fan of onion, try adding shallots, or leave it out altogether. Garlic can be substituted with garlic powder in a pinch — about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought works just fine. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead to keep the flavors rich.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess, but feel free to swap it with Greek yogurt or omit it entirely for a lighter dish.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Just Right?
Getting juicy pork chops in the crock pot is all about layering flavors and cooking time. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by browning the chops in a skillet. This step enhances the flavor with a nice sear.
- Layer the potatoes and onions at the bottom of the crock pot. This keeps them away from the heat source, ensuring even cooking.
- Use enough liquid to keep everything moist, but don’t overdo it. One cup of broth is just right.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours. This longer time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for tender meat.
And remember, don’t rush the cooking process! The slow cooker does its magic best when you let it be. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For Serving:
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy crock pot recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires a cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day or a slow weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Pork Chops:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter. Once it’s hot, brown the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side. This adds a nice golden color and extra flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I recommend it for the best taste!
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Grab your crock pot! Start by placing the peeled and chunked potatoes and sliced onion at the bottom of the pot. This will create a cozy base for your dish.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chicken broth, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Combine in the Crock Pot:
Pour the seasoning mixture evenly over the potatoes and onions in the crock pot. Then, place the browned pork chops on top of the vegetable layer.
5. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crock pot with its lid. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be fork-tender, and the potatoes should be soft and delicious.
6. Optionally Add Creaminess:
Just before serving, if you want a rich and creamy flavor, stir in the sour cream. It gives a wonderful touch to the sauce!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like. Serve your warm and hearty pork chops and potatoes right out of the crock pot and enjoy every bite! It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking, you can use frozen ones in a pinch! Just increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low and ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth works wonderfully as a substitute! You can also use water with a splash of soy sauce or seasoning for flavor, but broth gives the best taste.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before. Just chop the veggies and season the pork chops, then store them separately in the fridge. In the morning, you can quickly assemble them in the crock pot and let them cook while you’re away!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little broth or water to keep everything moist!
