Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! This recipe for juicy pork chops and perfectly roasted potatoes cooked in your slow cooker is the answer to your weeknight dinner woes. It's a delicious and healthy meal that requires minimal hands-on time, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your evening. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a staple in any home cook's repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Preheat your slow cooker to low. Wash and prepare all your vegetables. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels – this helps them brown better.
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Sear the Pork Chops (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor and a beautiful crust, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a delicious depth of flavor.
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Assemble in the Crock-Pot: Place the potatoes, onions, and carrots in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Add the Pork Chops and Broth: Place the seared (or unseared) pork chops on top of the vegetables. Pour the chicken broth around the meat and vegetables.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops and potatoes from the slow cooker. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Pork Chops and Potatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the crock-pot: Ensure there's enough space for the ingredients to cook evenly.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Paprika, sage, or a pinch of red pepper flakes would all be delicious additions.
- Thicker chops may require longer cooking time: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Bone-in pork chops: Bone-in pork chops retain moisture better during slow cooking, resulting in extra juicy and tender results.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herb combinations to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy finish.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This recipe for pork chop recipes with crock-pot potatoes offers a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. The tender pork chops and perfectly roasted potatoes will become a new family favorite, showcasing the ease and deliciousness of homemade cooking and healthy meals. Enjoy!