Savor the Simplicity: Homestyle Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Are you in search of a comforting and hearty meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further than our Homestyle Slow Cooker Pork Chops recipe! This classic dish combines tender boneless pork chops with a savory gravy, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious homestyle meal with minimal hands-on time. Join us as we delve into the world of slow-cooked comfort food and learn how to create this timeless favorite.

Ingredients:

4-6 boneless pork chops
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons dry mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, optional
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 (10.5 oz.) can low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch, optional
2 tablespoons water, optional

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Chops:

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, dry mustard powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning (if using), and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then dredge them in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

2. Brown the Pork Chops:

Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Transfer the browned pork chops to the slow cooker.

3. Prepare the Gravy:

In the same skillet used to brown the pork chops, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Bring the broth to a simmer, then pour it over the pork chops in the slow cooker.

4. Slow Cook:

Cover the slow cooker and cook the pork chops on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.

5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):

If desired, you can thicken the gravy before serving. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
Pour the slurry into the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.
Continue cooking the pork chops for an additional 15-30 minutes on high heat, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the pork chops are cooked and the gravy is thickened (if using), serve the Homestyle Slow Cooker Pork Chops hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Add Flavor: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences. You can add smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, or any other herbs and spices you enjoy.
Creamy Variation: For a creamier gravy, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream during the last hour of cooking.
Vegetable Addition: To make this meal even heartier and more nutritious, consider adding diced onions, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker along with the pork chops.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless? A: Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used in this recipe. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in chops may take longer to cook through.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: While this recipe is specifically designed for pork chops, you can certainly use other cuts of meat such as chicken thighs or beef stew meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type and thickness of the meat.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, leftover pork chops and gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Is there a keto-friendly version of this recipe? A: To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, you can omit the flour and cornstarch and use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or glucomannan powder. Additionally, you can use bone broth instead of chicken broth for added nutrients.

In conclusion, Homestyle Slow Cooker Pork Chops are a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create a hearty and satisfying dish that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of homestyle cooking with these tender and flavorful pork chops.