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The moment I walked into my kitchen today, I was greeted by the comforting scent of savory spices wafting through the air, igniting memories of family dinners long past. That’s when I realized it was time for a cozy weeknight meal—my go-to Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops. This recipe has become a cherished staple in my home, transforming tender, bone-in pork chops into a delightfully creamy dish that practically cooks itself.

With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you can create a rich herb gravy that clings lovingly to each chop. Perfect for those busy evenings when your schedule demands a delicious home-cooked meal without the hassle, this budget-friendly recipe will impress everyone at the dinner table—whether you’re feeding a large family or looking to enjoy leftovers for days. Let’s dive into how to whip up this comfort food classic that never fails to warm my heart and stomach!

Why Will You Love Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops?

Effortless Preparation: Just a few minutes of seasoning and sautéing, then let your slow cooker do the magic.
Savory Richness: A luscious creamy herb gravy envelops succulent pork.
Tender Texture: Bone-in chops ensure ultimate tenderness that melts in your mouth.
Versatile Serving: Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: A dish that even picky eaters will adore, making it perfect for family dinners.
Budget-Friendly: Use simple ingredients without sacrificing flavor, perfect for any home chef!

Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops Ingredients

• Dive into the flavors with these key ingredients!

For the Pork Chops

Bone-in Pork Loin Chops – Essential for tenderness and flavor; using boneless may lead to a drier result.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing to enhance flavor; can substitute with vegetable oil.

For the Gravy

Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; unsalted butter is recommended for better control of salt levels.
Yellow Onion – Provides savory depth; sweet onion can be swapped for a milder flavor.
Garlic – Enhances the aroma and taste; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Dried Thyme – Key herb for flavor; substitute with Italian seasoning if it’s not on hand.
Salt – Enhances overall taste; use kosher or sea salt for the best results.
Dried Mustard Powder – Adds an underlying tanginess; can also replace with Dijon mustard.
Pepper – Adds spice to taste; freshly ground is recommended for optimal flavor.
Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the sauce; homemade or low-sodium is encouraged for healthier options.
Heavy Cream – Provides creaminess to the gravy; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Cornstarch – Used for thickening the gravy; can swap with flour if needed.

For Garnish

Dried Parsley & Dried Basil – Add finishing flavor and visual appeal; feel free to use fresh herbs if available.

Enjoy your journey to making delicious Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops!

How to Make Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops

Season the Chops: Begin by seasoning your bone-in pork loin chops generously with dried thyme, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. This step adds layers of flavor to your meal.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil and melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly softened.
Brown the Chops: Move the onion and garlic to the side, then add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Brown them on each side for approximately 2 minutes until golden—a crucial step for flavor.
Transfer to Slow Cooker: Carefully transfer the browned chops along with the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Then, pour in the chicken broth to create the rich base for your gravy.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the pork is fork-tender, perfect for a comforting meal.
Add Cream: Once the pork is tender, remove the chops gently. Then, whisk the heavy cream into the slow cooker until well combined.
Thicken the Gravy: To achieve the perfect gravy consistency, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan. Mix in cornstarch and bring to a boil, stirring until it thickens to your liking.
Serve and Garnish: Return the thickened sauce over the pork chops in the slow cooker. Garnish with dried parsley and basil before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.

Optional: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort dish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops

Choose Bone-In Chops: Always opt for bone-in pork chops to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor; boneless chops can end up drier.
Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the pork chops before slow cooking develops deeper flavors and a rich crust.
Thicken Wisely: If the gravy ends up too thin, mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the sauce. This prevents clumping and achieves a silky texture.
Store Properly: Leftover gravy can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for quick future meals.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. A dash more salt or pepper can elevate your Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops to perfection.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can season the pork chops and sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, the creamy herb gravy can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer the seasoned chops and aromatics to the slow cooker along with the broth, and cook as directed. This plan not only saves you time on busy evenings but also guarantees that your dish will be just as delicious and comforting as if you’d made it all in one go!

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork chops and gravy in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through to preserve the creamy texture of the gravy.

Leftover Gravy: If you have extra gravy, store it separately in the fridge or freezer following the same guidelines to maintain its rich, delicious flavor for future meals.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops?

Picture the comforting taste of a family classic accompanied by dishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes absorb the luscious gravy, creating a harmonious blend of texture and taste.
Sautéed Green Beans: Their bright, crisp flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gravy, adding a touch of color to your plate. Toss them in a little garlic for an extra layer of flavor!
Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender, roasted carrots bring out the savory notes of the dish and add a vibrant burst of color.
Buttery Cornbread: Soft, warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that creamy herb gravy. A true Southern comfort addition!
Mixed Greens Salad: A light, tangy salad balances the richness of the pork chops. Complement it with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing lift.
Chardonnay: A glass of lightly oaked Chardonnay enhances the meal with its buttery undertones, matching the creamy elements of the dish seamlessly.

Indulging in these pairings will transform your dining experience, turning ordinary days into delicious memories!

Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops Variations

Explore delightful twists to make this comforting dish even more your own!

Chicken Thighs: Swap pork chops for juicy chicken thighs for a lighter yet equally delicious alternative.
The flavor of chicken will meld beautifully with the creamy sauce, providing a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a unique flavor profile.
Each herb brings its own character, adding aromatic depth that will make your dish stand out.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning for heat.
This fiery touch can perfectly complement the creamy sauce, creating a hearty dish that packs a flavorful punch.
Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Incorporate sliced mushrooms into the gravy for an umami boost and added texture.
Mushrooms will absorb the delightful flavors of the sauce, transforming the dish into a rich, savory experience.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in some chopped carrots and celery along with the onions for a more robust dish.
These veggies will soften beautifully in the slow cooker, enriching the gravy with their natural sweetness.
Sweet and Tangy Twist: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a teaspoon of honey for a subtle tang.
This surprising addition can elevate the entire dish, balancing richness with a delightful sweet note.
Swap the Gravy Base: Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a bolder flavor in the sauce.
Switching broths can completely transform the taste, lending a heartier depth that’s perfect for adventurous palates.
Lower-Fat Option: Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter version.
This will give you the creamy texture without the extra calories, keeping the dish comforting and healthier.

Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops Recipe FAQs

What type of pork chops should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, I recommend using bone-in pork loin chops for the best flavor and tenderness. Bone-in chops retain moisture during cooking, making them less likely to dry out compared to boneless chops. If you only have boneless on hand, cook them just slightly less time to prevent them from becoming tough.

How should I store leftovers from the Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops?
For the best results, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When properly stored, the flavors will remain vibrant and delicious. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain that rich, creamy texture.

Can I freeze the Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops?
Yes, you can! To freeze, transfer the pork chops and gravy into an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed throughout.

What if my gravy turns out too thin?
If your gravy doesn’t thicken as expected, don’t worry! In a separate bowl, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir this mixture into the simmering gravy. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously until it thickens to your desired consistency. This will create that luscious coating you’re looking for.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you or your guests have allergies, be cautious with the ingredients. The recipe contains dairy from butter and heavy cream, which can be substituted with plant-based alternatives. Additionally, if you’re serving this dish to pets, avoid any seasoned leftovers, especially those containing garlic or onion which can be harmful to them.

How do I know when the pork chops are done cooking?
The key to perfect pork chops is tenderness; they’ll be done when they easily pull apart with a fork. If you’re using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) during cooking. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly after removing them from the slow cooker, so don’t overcook!