These Garlic Parmesan Slow Cooker Pork Chops are super tender and packed with flavor! The garlic and Parmesan cheese bring a tasty twist that everyone will love.
Honestly, coming home to the smell of these cooking is the best part of my day! Just toss them in the cooker, and let it work its magic while you relax. Easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for slow cooking. They stay moist and tender. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops or even pork loin, but adjust the cooking time as boneless chops may cook faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong and delightful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too; use about 1 teaspoon, but fresh will always give that punch!
Parmesan Cheese: I’m a big fan of freshly grated Parmesan. The flavor is unbeatable! However, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just add it towards the end!
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, heavy cream is great but you can swap it with half-and-half for a lighter dish. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, use coconut milk for a dairy-free version or even omit it for a broth-based sauce.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Tender and Flavorful in the Slow Cooker?
Getting tender pork chops is easy when you let the slow cooker do the work! Searing them first adds a nice depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, it’s okay to skip. Here’s how to maximize tenderness:
- Season well with salt, pepper, and paprika for a delicious base flavor.
- Use low heat for longer cooking if you can; this helps break down the meat fibers.
- Let them cook until they’re fork-tender, about 5-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
- Don’t lift the lid too often; every time you do, heat escapes which can slow down the cooking process.
Garlic Parmesan Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and approximately 5-6 hours to cook on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for a lazy Sunday dinner or any busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will enhance their flavor while they cook.
2. Sear the Pork Chops (Optional):
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. This step is optional, but it adds a delicious depth of flavor to the dish!
3. Place Pork Chops in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared pork chops into the slow cooker, making sure to arrange them evenly.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, dried Italian seasoning, and butter. Stir well to combine all the flavors!
5. Pour Sauce Over Pork Chops:
Carefully pour the garlic-Parmesan mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated.
6. Cook the Pork Chops:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The pork chops are ready when they are tender and have reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
7. Add Cream for Extra Richness:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) into the sauce in the slow cooker. This will create a rich and creamy texture that you’ll love!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Slow Cooker Pork Chops!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so check for doneness around the 1.5 to 2 hour mark on high or about 4 hours on low.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep them moist.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that coconut milk will change the flavor slightly!
How Can I Thicken the Sauce If It’s Too Runny?
If your sauce is too runny, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
