This Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Potatoes dish is like a warm hug in a bowl! Tender pork chops simmer slowly in a rich, creamy sauce, along with fluffy potatoes.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal without the fuss. I love tossing everything in the crockpot and coming back to a delicious dinner. Easy peasy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add more flavor due to the bone, but boneless chops work just as well if you prefer them. For a leaner option, try using turkey cutlets!
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes because they cook evenly and don’t require peeling. If you can’t find them, regular potatoes (like Yukon Gold) work fine. Just chop them into smaller, uniform pieces.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe, bringing a great flavor. If you’re out, you can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove of garlic.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just know the consistency will differ slightly.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary really complement the pork. You can swap them for Italian seasoning or use fresh herbs if you have them handy; just adjust the quantity as fresh herbs are more potent.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Tender in the Crockpot?
Cooking pork chops in a crockpot is a great way to keep them juicy, but there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Searing is Key: Searing the pork chops before adding them to the crockpot enhances flavor and locks in moisture.
- Don’t Overcook: Cooking on low for 6-7 hours is ideal. On high, make sure to check at 3-4 hours. If they’re done early, it’s okay to keep them warm in the crockpot.
- Liquid Level: The sauce not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat moist. Make sure there’s enough liquid to cover the pork, but not overly saturate.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have delightfully tender, creamy pork chops with perfectly cooked potatoes!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Potatoes in a Crockpot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Optional Thickening:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Altogether, you can expect to enjoy a delicious meal after about 7 hours if cooking on low or just over 4 hours if using the high setting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. This will give them great flavor as they cook.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are a beautiful golden brown. This step is optional but adds lovely flavor! Once done, remove the pork chops and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Crockpot:
In the bottom of the crockpot, layer the halved baby potatoes and sliced onions. This will create a nice base for your meat and sauce.
4. Add the Pork Chops:
Place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes in the crockpot. Make sure they are nestled well on top.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, heavy cream, and minced garlic. Once combined, pour this creamy mixture over the pork chops and potatoes in the crockpot. It will look delicious already!
6. Cook the Dish:
Cover and cook the dish on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork should be cooked through and the potatoes should be tender when done.
7. (Optional) Thicken the Sauce:
If you prefer a thicker sauce, gently remove the pork chops and potatoes from the crockpot. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir this slurry into the cooking liquid and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Then return the pork chops and potatoes to the pot.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh, chopped parsley on top of the dish for a bright and fresh finish. Enjoy your creamy, garlicky pork chops with flavorful potatoes straight from the crockpot!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Potatoes in Crockpot
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but it’s best to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. If using them frozen, you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with rice or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce!
