Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Then look no further! This Crock Pot Pork Chops with Apples recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy pork chops infused with the sweetness of apples and a hint of savory spice – it's a healthy and delicious dish perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step helps to seal in the juices and add flavor.
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Layer in the Crock Pot: Place the seared pork chops in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the sliced apples and onions.
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Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, thyme, and sage.
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Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce over the pork chops and vegetables in the slow cooker.
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Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and easily shred with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
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Serve: Serve the pork chops with the apples and sauce. You can thicken the sauce slightly by removing the pork chops and vegetables and simmering the liquid on the stovetop for a few minutes. Consider serving this dish with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the pork chops, ensure you don't overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops to ensure they are cooked through.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Add other vegetables: Include other vegetables like carrots, celery, or butternut squash for a heartier meal.
- Use different apples: Experiment with different types of apples for varied sweetness and flavor profiles.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Crock Pot Pork Chops with Apples recipe is a simple yet satisfying addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a testament to how easy it is to create delicious dishes with minimal effort. Enjoy!