This Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes Dinner is a cozy meal perfect for busy days. Just toss in tender pork chops, creamy potatoes, and some seasoning, then let the slow cooker do all the work!
You’ll love how simple it is—just set it and forget it! Plus, the smell wafting through the house will make everyone excited for dinner. Who doesn’t love a hearty one-pot meal? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are recommended for juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner cut, boneless chops work too, though they’ll cook faster. You could also use chicken thighs for a different protein option.
Potatoes: Red potatoes add a nice creamy texture. Yukon Golds are another great choice if you want something a bit buttery. You can also substitute with sweet potatoes if you’re looking for a different flavor!
Onion: Yellow onions give a great base flavor, but white or sweet onions can be used too. If you don’t have any onion, leeks or shallots can work in a pinch.
Chicken Broth: Store-bought broth is easy and convenient. If you’re looking for a lower sodium option, go for reduced-sodium broth. Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a lighter taste.
Herbs: If you don’t have dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley, Italian seasoning could replace them all for a similar herbal flavor. Fresh herbs are lovely too—just double the amount!
How Do I Get Perfectly Browned Pork Chops?
Browning the pork chops enhances their flavor, so here’s how to do it effectively:
- Pat the chops dry beforehand for a better sear—moisture will steam them instead!
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add oil before placing the chops in. This ensures they won’t stick.
- Don’t crowd the pan; brown them in batches if necessary. This allows better heat circulation for that golden color.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned, then transfer them to the crock pot. They’ll finish cooking there!
Perfectly browned pork chops add depth to your dish and make for a meal you’ll be proud to serve!
Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 3/4 to 1 inch thick
- 1.5 lbs red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus cooking time of 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH in the crock pot. You’ll spend just a few minutes seasoning and searing the pork chops, then let your slow cooker do all the work. A perfect set-it-and-forget-it dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
To start, pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. This helps them brown better. Now, season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. If you’re using onion powder, sprinkle that on as well. Make sure they’re well-coated for maximum flavor!
2. Brown the Pork Chops:
Next, heat your olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops to the skillet. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re a beautiful golden brown. This step boosts the flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, you can skip it and place them directly in the crock pot!
3. Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Now it’s time to build some delicious layers! Take your halved red potatoes and sliced onions and put them in the bottom of the slow cooker. Then, sprinkle the minced garlic over the top of the potatoes and onions.
4. Add Liquid:
Pour your chicken broth over the layered potatoes and onions. This will add moisture and flavor to the dish as it cooks.
5. Add Pork Chops:
Gently place the browned pork chops right on top of the potato and onion mixture in the crock pot. Lay them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
6. Cook:
Cover your crock pot and set it to cook! Choose LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, the pork chops should be tender, and the potatoes will be soft and delicious!
7. Optional – Thicken the Sauce:
If you’d like to thicken the delicious cooking liquid into a gravy, simply remove the pork chops and potatoes to a serving dish. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then stir this mixture into the liquid left in the crock pot. Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 15-20 minutes until it thickens.
8. Serve:
Finally, plate your pork chops with the creamy potatoes and drizzle some of the flavorful sauce over the top. Enjoy your easy, comforting crock pot dinner!
This recipe gives you tender, herb-seasoned pork chops paired with soft, flavorful potatoes, all cooked together effortlessly in your crock pot. A home-cooked meal that’s hassle-free and delightful!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker method, submerge them in a sealed bag in cold water for a few hours. This ensures even cooking and tenderness!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, green beans, or celery. Just be mindful of their cook times—hard vegetables like carrots can be added at the same time as the potatoes, while softer greens should be added about halfway through cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to revive the moisture.
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Yes, you can substitute pork with chicken thighs or even beef stew meat! Adjust the cooking time accordingly—chicken may take less time, while beef may require longer for tenderness. Just keep an eye on when everything’s cooked through!
