Are you craving a comforting, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This pork chop and sweet potato crock pot recipe is your answer. It’s a perfect example of how easy homemade cooking can be, resulting in a delicious dish the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is optional, but pre-searing the pork chops adds a delicious depth of flavor. While the oven preheats, prepare all the vegetables by peeling and chopping them into roughly equal-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking in the crock pot.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops (Optional)
If you choose to sear the pork chops, heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step isn't necessary, but it creates a beautiful crust and enhances the overall flavor. Transfer the seared pork chops to your slow cooker.
Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot
Place the chopped sweet potatoes, onions, and carrots in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar over the vegetables. Sprinkle the brown sugar, thyme, and garlic powder evenly over everything. Season with salt and pepper. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are easily pierced with a fork and the sweet potatoes are tender. Cooking times may vary depending on your crock pot and the thickness of your pork chops.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the pork chops are cooked through, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the pork chops over the tender sweet potatoes and carrots. This hearty and healthy meal is perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A dash of rosemary or sage would also complement this dish beautifully.
- Thicker pork chops require longer cooking time: Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or butternut squash.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use different vinegar: Experiment with balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra carbohydrates.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Around 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
This pork chop and sweet potato crock pot recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that proves delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy!