Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Pork Chops

Ingredients

• 4-6 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

Step-by-Step

1. In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

2. Rub the Parmesan garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.

3. Place the pork chops in a single layer in the crockpot.

4. Pour the chicken broth over the pork chops.

5. Dot the top of the pork chops with the butter pieces.

6. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender.

7. Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the crockpot.

8. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

The Magic of Slow Cooking Pork Chops

Slow cooking transforms ordinary pork chops into a tender and flavorful dish. The crockpot provides a gentle, consistent heat that allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. This method ensures the pork chops remain moist and don’t dry out, a common problem with other cooking methods.

Why Use a Crockpot?

Crockpots are incredibly convenient, especially for busy weeknights. Simply prep the ingredients, toss them in the crockpot, and let it do its magic. You’ll come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.

Furthermore, slow cooking is excellent for tenderizing tougher cuts of meat. Even if you’re using relatively lean pork chops, the long cooking time will break down connective tissues, resulting in a more tender and enjoyable eating experience.

Selecting the Right Pork Chops

Boneless pork chops are generally recommended for this recipe, as they cook more evenly and quickly in the crockpot. However, bone-in pork chops can also be used, but they may require a longer cooking time.

Choose pork chops that are about 1-inch thick. This thickness ensures they cook through without becoming overly dry. Look for chops with good marbling, which indicates higher fat content and contributes to flavor and moisture.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The Parmesan garlic crust creates a rich and savory flavor profile that perfectly complements the pork chops. However, there are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your preferences.

Creative Variations

Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the Parmesan mixture for a bright and tangy flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat. For a sweeter flavor, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can be incorporated.

You can also add vegetables to the crockpot along with the pork chops. Sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions. These vegetables will absorb the flavorful broth and become tender and flavorful.

Choosing the Right Herbs and Spices

The dried Italian herbs provide a classic and aromatic flavor. However, you can experiment with other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Fresh herbs can also be used, but they should be added towards the end of the cooking time to retain their flavor.

Garlic is a key ingredient in this recipe, but feel free to adjust the amount to your liking. For a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Crockpot Parmesan garlic pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Perfect Pairings

Mashed potatoes provide a creamy and comforting contrast to the savory pork chops. Roasted asparagus or broccoli are healthy and flavorful options. A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing can add a refreshing element to the meal.

For a heartier meal, serve the pork chops over egg noodles or pasta. The flavorful sauce from the crockpot can be tossed with the pasta for a delicious and satisfying dish.

Making it a Complete Meal

To create a complete and balanced meal, consider adding a side of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice. These grains provide fiber and nutrients that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

You can also add a side of fruit, such as sliced apples or berries, for a touch of sweetness and antioxidants. A glass of milk or a fortified plant-based beverage will provide calcium and other essential nutrients.

Tips for Crockpot Success

Using a crockpot is generally straightforward, but a few tips can help ensure optimal results. Proper food safety, liquid amounts, and cooking times are all keys to a successful meal.

Food Safety First

Always ensure the pork chops are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to kill any harmful bacteria. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chop.

Do not thaw frozen pork chops at room temperature. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Always wash your hands and kitchen surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat.

Liquid Matters

Adding the right amount of liquid to the crockpot is essential for preventing the pork chops from drying out. The chicken broth provides moisture and helps to create a flavorful sauce.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce.

Mastering Cooking Times

Cooking times can vary depending on the wattage of your crockpot and the thickness of the pork chops. It’s always best to check the pork chops for doneness towards the end of the cooking time.

If the pork chops are cooked through but the sauce is too thin, you can remove the lid from the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce.

Leftovers and Storage

Crockpot Parmesan garlic pork chops are perfect for meal prepping. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Reheating Tips

To reheat the pork chops, place them in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on medium power until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of olive oil or butter.

If the pork chops are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Avoid reheating them directly from frozen, as this can result in uneven cooking.

Creative Leftover Uses

Leftover pork chops can be used in a variety of creative ways. Slice them and add them to salads, sandwiches, or wraps. Shred them and use them as a topping for tacos or nachos.

You can also chop the pork chops and add them to pasta dishes, stir-fries, or omelets. The possibilities are endless!

FAQ

Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops, but they may require a longer cooking time.

Can I freeze these pork chops?

Yes, cooked pork chops can be frozen for longer storage.

How do I prevent the pork chops from drying out in the crockpot?

Ensure you have enough liquid in the crockpot and don’t overcook them.

Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the pork chops?

Yes, you can add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Add a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.