These easy slow cooker pork chops are so tender and drenched in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce! You just toss everything in the cooker and let it do the magic for you.
I love how the whole house smells amazing while this cooks. Serve it with rice or mashed potatoes, and you’ll impress everyone—even if it took minimal effort! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great because they keep the meat juicy. If you want boneless or thinner chops, that’s totally fine! Just adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind the sauce might be a bit thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan really enhances the flavor, but you could use Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste. If you’re vegan, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will also work nicely!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops is key to building rich flavor right from the start. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until it’s hot. Add olive oil or butter. Don’t be shy about using enough to coat the bottom!
- Once hot, gently place the pork chops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving them, so they develop a nice golden color.
- Flip the chops and repeat on the other side. This step seals in juices and creates a lovely depth of flavor.
- After searing, transfer them to the slow cooker right away. This keeps the cooking process flowing smoothly!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops With Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for searing)
For Thickening the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
What Is Your Total Time Requirement?
This meal requires about 10 minutes of prep time and then a slow cooking time of 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. It’s a simple way to prepare a delicious dinner without spending all day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of your pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will add lots of flavor to the meat!
2. Searing the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is important for flavor! After searing, transfer the pork chops to the slow cooker.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant—don’t let it burn! Next, pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Be sure to scrape any browned bits stuck to the pan; they’re full of flavor!
4. Adding the Creamy Goodness:
Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese melts and you have a smooth sauce. This rich sauce is going to coat the chops beautifully!
5. Combining It All Together:
Next, pour the creamy garlic sauce over the pork chops in the slow cooker, covering them nicely with all that goodness.
6. Slow Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The pork should be tender and juicy when done.
7. Thickening the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before serving, mix together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker to thicken it up. Let it cook uncovered during that last half hour.
8. Final Touches:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a nice color and added flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
These juicy pork chops with creamy garlic Parmesan sauce are perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your comforting and flavorful dinner!
FAQ – Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops With Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! If you use boneless pork chops, just be aware that they will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time to 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2 hours on high to prevent overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or cashew cream. Just note that the sauce may be a little less thick.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can sear the pork chops and prepare the sauce the night before. Assemble everything in the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just plug in your slow cooker and let it do the work!
