Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This pork chop and apple crock pot recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend evenings. Tender, juicy pork chops simmered with sweet apples and aromatic spices create a dish that's both healthy and satisfying. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that requires minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas, and it's guaranteed to become one of your best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Peel, core, and slice the apples. Chop the onion. This simple step will make the cooking process much smoother.
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Layer in the Crock Pot: Place the chopped onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange the pork chops on top of the onions. Evenly distribute the apple slices over the pork chops.
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Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Pour and Cook: Pour the sauce over the pork chops and apples in the slow cooker.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and easily fork-tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops and your slow cooker.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon the delicious apple sauce over the pork chops. Serve immediately and enjoy this healthy meal. This recipe is a fantastic option for a quick dinner, perfect for busy weeknights.
Tips for the Best Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops for even cooking.
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in pork chops tend to stay more moist during slow cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Thicker chops: For thicker pork chops, increase the cooking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or marjoram.
- Sweet and savory: Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Garlic lover?: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the sauce for a more robust flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
This delicious pork chop and apple crock pot recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!