These slow cooker pork chops are super easy and so tender! They cook low and slow, soaking up all the delicious flavors of spices and a tasty sauce.
I love that I can set it and forget it! Just toss everything in, and come back to a tasty dinner. Perfect for busy days when you want a warm meal without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give more flavor, but boneless can be used for convenience. If you’re looking for alternatives, try chicken thighs or turkey cutlets for a leaner option.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms like cremini or button are great for this dish, but if you don’t have them, canned mushrooms work in a pinch. They might not have the same texture, but they still add flavor!
Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer. Homemade broth is even better if you have some on hand!
Cornstarch: This is used for thickening the gravy. You can substitute it with flour or even arrowroot powder if you need a gluten-free option.
How Do I Get Juicy Pork Chops in a Slow Cooker?
To ensure your pork chops turn out juicy and flavorful, start with a good seasoning. Pat them dry and season generously with salt and pepper before searing. Searing locks in flavor and keeps the moisture inside.
- Don’t skip the searing step; just a few minutes of browning makes a big difference.
- Cook them low and slow—5-6 hours on low helps them become fork-tender.
- When making the gravy, tasting and adjusting flavors is key; don’t hesitate to add more broth or seasoning as needed.
These tips will give you delicious, tender pork chops that your family will love! Enjoy your meal!
Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh for garnish)
For Thickening the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Green beans or other vegetable side (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker pork chop recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus cooking time of 5-6 hours on low or 2.5-3 hours on high. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that you can prepare in the morning and return to a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re browned. After they’re browned, transfer the chops to the slow cooker. This step adds a great flavor!
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, you can add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the sliced mushrooms and chopped onions for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re soft and nicely browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells delicious!
4. Making the Gravy:
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet, scraping any tasty browned bits off the bottom. Stir in the thyme, then take this mushroom gravy mixture and pour it over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
5. Cooking in the Slow Cooker:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2.5-3 hours. The pork chops should be tender and fully cooked through when done.
6. Thickening the Gravy:
About 20 minutes before you plan to serve, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker to thicken the gravy. Cover again and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
7. Serving:
When ready, serve the pork chops with the mushroom gravy spooned over the top. For a little color, garnish with fresh thyme and parsley. These go lovely with steamed green beans or your favorite vegetable side—enjoy your comforting meal!
Now, sit back and savor the tender, flavorful pork chop meal with the rich mushroom gravy! It’s perfect for family dinners and will surely become a favorite.
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Using frozen pork chops is possible, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Make sure they’re completely thawed before searing.
Can I Substitute Ingredients in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have beef broth, feel free to use chicken broth or vegetable broth. You can also use any mushrooms you like—fresh or canned—based on what you have on hand.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the pork chops and mushroom gravy a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator after cooking, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the gravy has thickened too much!