Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe

Discover a simple, flavorful Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe perfect for effortless weeknight dinners. This dish combines tender, juicy pork chops with perfectly cooked potatoes, all slow-cooked to develop rich flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re new to using a crock pot or just looking for a comforting meal that requires minimal effort, this recipe hits all the boxes for deliciousness and ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply add all ingredients to your crock pot and let it handle the cooking while you focus on your day.
• Perfectly Tender Pork: The slow cooking process ensures the pork chops come out juicy and full of flavor.
• One-Pot Meal: Combines protein and vegetables in one dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.
• Family Friendly: Mild seasoning and hearty ingredients make it a hit for all ages.
• Customizable Flavors: Easy to tweak with herbs, spices, or sauces to match your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is how simple but essential the ingredients are, each contributing to a harmonious blend of savory flavors and comforting textures that make the meal satisfying and colorful.

• Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless pork chops work well for tenderness and flavor retention.
• Baby Potatoes: Their size helps them cook evenly alongside the pork chops without getting mushy.
• Onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic base that deepens the overall flavor.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with subtle warmth and depth.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps everything moist and enhances the savory profile.
• Olive Oil: Used to lightly brown the pork chops before slow cooking for extra flavor.
• Dried Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring an earthy, fragrant touch to the meal.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Optional Add-in: Carrots or Green Beans: For added color, nutrition, and texture variation.

Variations for Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes

Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. This Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is incredibly flexible and invites creativity without complicating the cooking process.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to bring a subtle heat to the dish.
• Herb Swap: Use Italian seasoning or a blend of sage and oregano for different aromatic notes.
• Vegetarian Add-in: Throw in sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and umami flavor.
• BBQ Flair: Mix in your favorite barbecue sauce in place of broth for a tangy twist.
• Low Sodium Option: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt to meet dietary requirements.

How to Make Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing the baby potatoes and cutting any larger ones in half to ensure they cook evenly. Slice the onion thinly and mince your garlic. Pat the pork chops dry to help with browning.

Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly brown each side of the pork chops until golden, about 2 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds flavorful color.

Step 3: Layer in the Crock Pot

Place the potatoes and onions at the bottom of the crock pot. Layer the browned pork chops on top. Sprinkle minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper evenly over the ingredients.

Step 4: Add Broth and Cook

Pour chicken broth gently over the meat and vegetables, helping everything stay moist and tender. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until pork and potatoes are perfectly tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Check seasoning before serving and adjust salt and pepper if needed. For a richer sauce, stir in a little butter or a splash of cream before plating.

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes

• Choose the Right Pork Chops: Thicker cuts stay juicier during slow cooking and resist drying out.
• Don’t Skip Browning: Searing pork chops before slow cooking creates deeper flavor and a better texture.
• Keep Liquids Minimal: Just enough broth to cover the bottom avoids watery potatoes or too soggy meat.
• Use Fresh Herbs if Possible: Fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish when added near the end of cooking.
• Layer Thoughtfully: Place potatoes on the bottom as they take longer to cook than pork chops.

How to Serve Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top adds a pop of vibrant green and fresh aroma that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

Serve this hearty dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness while keeping the meal wholesome.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic-style dinner, serve the pork chops and potatoes directly from the crock pot in a large ceramic bowl, then pass plates around the table family-style for a cozy, inviting meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay good for up to 3 days, making great second-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes well; just transfer portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Avoid overheating to keep pork chops tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen pork chops for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed pork chops to ensure even cooking and prevent the crock pot’s temperature from dropping too much during cooking, which might lead to uneven tenderness.

What type of potatoes work best?

Baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and cook evenly in the slow cooker without turning mushy.

How long should I cook Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes on high?

Cooking on high typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, but check doneness after 3 hours to avoid overcooking.

Can I add other vegetables to the crock pot?

Absolutely! Carrots, green beans, or even mushrooms are great additions and cook well alongside pork chops and potatoes in the crock pot.

Is it necessary to brown the pork chops first?

While not mandatory, browning the pork chops before slow cooking enhances the dish with additional flavor and better texture.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is a true lifesaver when you want a wholesome, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and tender textures make it a favorite that’s easy to fall in love with. Give it a try tonight, and you’ll see why this slow cooker classic becomes one of your go-to dinners right away.

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