This Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops with Potatoes recipe is just the ticket for a cozy dinner! Tender pork chops and creamy potatoes simmer all day, making a warm, delicious meal.
Cooking in the crock pot means less fuss for you! I love tossing everything in before work and coming home to a yummy dinner. Your house will smell amazing too! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and moisture during cooking. You can also use boneless chops if that’s what you have on hand, though they may cook slightly faster.
Baby Potatoes: These are great because they stay firm and flavorful. If you don’t have them, use regular potatoes cut into chunks. Just peel them if desired, but I like leaving the skins on for texture.
Heavy Cream/Sour Cream: For creaminess, heavy cream is my favorite, but if you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt works too. It will give a tangy flavor to the dish.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary really complement the pork. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them—just double the amount since they are less concentrated.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Searing on My Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops is key for adding depth of flavor to your dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot. This allows for that nice, golden color.
- Add olive oil before placing the chops in—just enough to coat the bottom.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This ensures they sear instead of steam.
- Sear each chop for 2-3 minutes on each side, then remove and add them to your crock pot.
This step might seem tedious, but trust me—it’s worth it for that extra flavor boost!
Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops with Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pork and Vegetables:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Broth and Cream:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks slowly in the crock pot. Plan for about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. By the end, your pork will be tender, and the flavors will meld perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. This will give a nice flavor base to your dish!
2. Sear for Extra Flavor:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor, but it can be skipped if you’re short on time. Just a heads up, though—skipping it will make your dish a bit less flavorful!
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
In the bottom of the crock pot, place the halved baby potatoes and sliced onions. This will serve as a hearty base for your pork chops.
4. Add Garlic:
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the potatoes and onions. This will infuse a lovely aroma and taste into the dish as it cooks.
5. Pour in the Broth:
Next, pour the chicken broth over the potato and onion mixture. This helps keep everything moist while cooking!
6. Add the Pork Chops:
Carefully lay the seared pork chops on top of the potato and onion mixture in the crock pot.
7. Cook:
Cover your crock pot and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The meat should be tender, and the potatoes soft when they’re done.
8. Make it Creamy:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream or sour cream to create a rich, creamy sauce. Cover and continue cooking until ready to serve.
9. Final Seasoning:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Each cook has different tastes, so make it your own!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy every bite of your tender, flavorful pork chops with creamy potatoes!
Happy cooking! This meal is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be aware that they might cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, to enjoy again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, green beans, or bell peppers. Just make sure they’re cut to similar sizes to ensure even cooking. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly.
Is There a Way to Thicken the Sauce?
Yes! If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the crock pot about 30 minutes before serving. Let it cook uncovered for that extra thickness!
