Cooking pork chops in a slow cooker with gravy is a great way to prepare a deliciously tender meal with minimal effort. This method is perfect for busy individuals who want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal. In this article, we will explore the steps to cook pork chops in a slow cooker with gravy, including the ingredients, cooking time, and tips for achieving tender and flavorful results.
Choosing the Right Pork Chops
When it comes to cooking pork chops in a slow cooker, it’s essential to choose the right type of pork chops. Look for pork chops that are at least 1-1.5 inches thick, as they will hold up better to the long cooking time. You can choose either boneless or bone-in pork chops, depending on your preference. Bone-in pork chops will add more flavor to the dish, but boneless pork chops will be easier to serve.
Pork Chop Cuts
There are several types of pork chop cuts that you can use for slow cooking. Some popular options include:
- Blade chops: These chops are cut from the shoulder area and are known for their rich flavor and tender texture.
- Loin chops: These chops are cut from the loin area and are leaner than blade chops. They are still tender and flavorful, but may not be as rich as blade chops.
- Rib chops: These chops are cut from the rib area and are known for their tender and juicy texture.
Ingredients and Seasonings
To cook pork chops in a slow cooker with gravy, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4-6 pork chops (depending on size and number of servings)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of butter or oil
Seasoning the Pork Chops
Before cooking the pork chops, it’s essential to season them with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. You can also add a marinade or rub to the pork chops for extra flavor.
Cooking the Pork Chops
To cook the pork chops in a slow cooker, follow these steps:
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
- Heat the butter or oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
- Transfer the pork chops to the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced onion to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- After 6 hours, add the garlic, chicken broth, water, tomato paste, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Continue cooking the pork chops for an additional 2-4 hours, or until they are tender and the gravy has thickened.
Gravy Thickening Tips
If the gravy is not thickening to your liking, you can try the following:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
- Use less chicken broth and water to reduce the overall liquid in the slow cooker.
- Cook the pork chops on high for the last 30 minutes to help thicken the gravy.
Tips for Achieving Tender and Flavorful Results
To achieve tender and flavorful results when cooking pork chops in a slow cooker, follow these tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
- Don’t overcook the pork chops, as they can become dry and tough.
- Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier and to prevent the pork chops from sticking to the slow cooker.
- Add aromatics such as onions, garlic, and herbs to the slow cooker for added flavor.
Pork Chop Cooking Times
The cooking time for pork chops in a slow cooker will depend on the thickness of the chops and the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking pork chops in a slow cooker:
| Cooking Time | Thickness of Pork Chops |
| — | — |
| 6-8 hours on low | 1-1.5 inches |
| 4-6 hours on high | 1-1.5 inches |
| 8-10 hours on low | 1.5-2 inches |
| 6-8 hours on high | 1.5-2 inches |
Serving Suggestions
Pork chops cooked in a slow cooker with gravy are a delicious and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve the pork chops with the gravy spooned over the top.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
- Use the leftover pork chops in a sandwich or wrap.
- Serve with a side of cornbread or biscuits.
Pork Chop Variations
You can also try different variations of pork chops cooked in a slow cooker with gravy. Some ideas include:
- BBQ pork chops: Add BBQ sauce to the slow cooker for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Italian-style pork chops: Add Italian seasonings and marinara sauce to the slow cooker for a flavorful and herby taste.
- Mexican-style pork chops: Add taco seasoning and salsa to the slow cooker for a spicy and flavorful meal.
By following these steps and tips, you can create a deliciously tender and flavorful meal of pork chops cooked in a slow cooker with gravy. Whether you’re a busy individual or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
What are the benefits of cooking pork chops in a slow cooker?
Cooking pork chops in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. One of the main benefits of slow cooking pork chops is that it allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy texture that is hard to achieve with other cooking methods. Additionally, slow cooking helps to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it easier to chew and more enjoyable to eat.
Another benefit of cooking pork chops in a slow cooker is that it allows for a rich and flavorful gravy to develop. As the pork chops cook, they release their juices and flavors into the slow cooker, which can then be used to make a delicious gravy to serve with the meal. This is especially useful for those who want to serve a complete meal with minimal extra effort.
What type of pork chops are best suited for slow cooking?
When it comes to slow cooking pork chops, it’s best to use thicker cuts of meat that are at least 1-1.5 inches thick. This is because thinner cuts of meat can become overcooked and dry when cooked for an extended period of time. Thicker cuts of meat, on the other hand, will remain juicy and tender even after several hours of cooking.
Some good options for slow cooking pork chops include boneless pork loin chops, bone-in pork chops, and pork chop steaks. It’s also a good idea to look for pork chops that are labeled as “slow cooker friendly” or “braising cuts,” as these are specifically designed to hold up well to slow cooking.
How long does it take to cook pork chops in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for pork chops in a slow cooker will depend on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, it’s best to cook pork chops on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. This will result in tender and juicy meat that is cooked through but still retains some moisture.
It’s also important to note that pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure food safety. It’s a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops, especially if you’re unsure of the cooking time.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the pork chops?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the slow cooker with the pork chops. In fact, this is a great way to add some extra flavor and nutrients to the meal. Some good options for vegetables to add to the slow cooker include carrots, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers.
When adding vegetables to the slow cooker, it’s best to add them towards the beginning of the cooking time so that they have a chance to cook through. You can also add some aromatics like garlic and herbs to the slow cooker for extra flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid levels accordingly to ensure that the vegetables are cooked through and the pork chops are tender.
How do I make the gravy for the pork chops?
To make the gravy for the pork chops, you can use the juices that are released from the meat during cooking. Simply strain the juices from the slow cooker and discard any excess fat. Then, whisk in some flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy, and cook it over low heat until it reaches the desired consistency.
You can also add some extra flavorings to the gravy, such as broth or wine, to give it a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure that the gravy is not too salty or overpowering. The gravy can be served over the pork chops and any accompanying vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Can I cook pork chops in a slow cooker on high?
Yes, you can cook pork chops in a slow cooker on high, but it’s generally recommended to cook them on low for a longer period of time. Cooking on high can result in a slightly tougher texture and a less tender meal.
However, if you’re short on time, cooking on high can be a good option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and check the internal temperature of the pork chops to ensure that they are cooked through. It’s also a good idea to check the pork chops periodically to ensure that they are not overcooking.
Can I refrigerate or freeze cooked pork chops?
Yes, you can refrigerate or freeze cooked pork chops for later use. In fact, this is a great way to meal prep or plan ahead for future meals. Cooked pork chops can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3-4 months.
When refrigerating or freezing cooked pork chops, it’s best to let them cool completely first to prevent bacterial growth. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to reheat and serve. Reheated pork chops can be served with the original gravy or with some new sides for a quick and easy meal.