Easy Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Unlock the secrets to effortlessly delicious pork chops with this slow cooker recipe. Perfectly seasoned and tender, these chops are ideal for any meal.

This method is perfect for those who want a meal that practically cooks itself while they go about their day. We’ll walk through each step of the process, from seasoning the meat to the final tasting. Ready to make some succulent pork chops? Let’s get started.

Ingredients and Preparation

Choosing the Right Pork Chops

For this recipe, we used pork sirloin chops that were thin cut and bone-in. They were quite the bargain at $1.59 per pound, with a total weight of 3.6 pounds costing just $5.72. Thin-cut chops cook faster and tend to be tender, making them an ideal choice for slow cooking.

Seasoning

To keep things simple, we opted for a dry slow-cooking method without adding any additional liquid. Here’s what we used for seasoning:

• Kosher salt
• Johnny’s Seasoned Pepper

Johnny’s Seasoned Pepper is a versatile blend that includes:

• Pepper
• Sugar
• Red and green bell pepper
• Garlic
• Onion

Feel free to tweak the seasonings to your liking. Options include barbecue rub, seasoned salt, or just a basic blend of salt and pepper.

Preparation Steps

1. Seasoning the Chops:

• Apply a modest amount of kosher salt and Johnny’s Seasoned Pepper to both sides of each pork chop. Given the thinness of the meat, be cautious not to over-season.

1. Arrangement in the Slow Cooker:

• Stand the pork chops around the edges of the slow cooker. This arrangement ensures they are less likely to overlap, promoting more even cooking.

Cooking the Pork Chops

Cooking Time and Settings

With the chops arranged in the slow cooker, secure the lid and set it to cook on low. The total cooking time we aimed for was roughly six and a half hours.

Tips for Even Cooking

Standing the chops on their edges allows for better circulation of heat and juices, contributing to a more uniform cook. This method also frees up the center of the pot, ensuring that none of the chops end up overcooked or too dry.

Variations in Cooking Time

The cooking time can vary based on a few factors:

• Number of Chops: More meat may require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Thickness of Chops: Thicker cuts will take longer to become tender.
• Fat Content: Leaner chops might cook faster but could be drier compared to fattier ones.

An estimate for cooking times:

• On Low: 6-8 hours
• On High: 4-5 hours

Remember, slow cooking is more art than science. The goal is to cook until the chops are tender, adjusting based on the specific characteristics of the meat you’re using.

The Result

Testing for Doneness

After about six and a half hours, the pork chops were done. To test their tenderness, try pulling a bone away from the meat or using a fork to see if it can cut through easily.

Natural Juices

One pleasant surprise was the amount of juice the pork chops produced on their own. Even without added liquid, the slow cooker created a flavorful broth from the meat’s natural juices. This can be spooned over the chops before serving to enhance their flavor and keep them moist.

Side Dishes

For a complete meal, consider pairing the pork chops with simple sides. We opted for a baked potato and a small salad, both of which complemented the meat without overshadowing its taste.

Tasting and Serving

Taste Test

The pork chops turned out exceptionally well, thanks to the slow, dry cooking method. They were:

• Flavorful: The minimal seasoning allowed the natural flavors of the pork to shine.
• Tender: Able to be cut easily with a fork, indicating they were cooked just right.

If you have pets, they might also be curious about your culinary creation. In a nod to our own experience, even our pet dog showed interest in these tasty chops!

Adjustments and Tips

If you find the meat a bit dry, this could be due to the nature of leaner cuts. For a juicier result, opt for chops with a higher fat content or add a bit of liquid like broth or barbecue sauce at the start of cooking.

Alternatively, you can drizzle some of the natural juices collected in the slow cooker over the chops when serving. This not only adds moisture but also enhances the meat’s flavor profile.

Conclusion

Slow-cooking pork chops is a wonderfully simple way to create a meal that’s rich in flavor and tender in texture. This no-fuss method requires minimal ingredients and effort, leaving you free to focus on other tasks. With just a bit of seasoning and time, you can produce pork chops that are sure to please any palate.

Key Takeaways

• Simplicity: Minimal ingredients and seasoning make this a go-to recipe for busy days.
• Versatility: Adjust seasonings and side dishes based on your preferences for a custom meal experience.
• Patience: Trust the process. Good things—especially slow-cooked pork chops—come to those who wait.

So next time you’re pondering what to cook, grab your slow cooker and some pork chops, set it to low, and let time work its magic. Your taste buds will thank you!

Thanks for following this recipe, and happy slow cooking!