Slow cookers are culinary lifesavers, especially when it comes to tenderizing tougher cuts of meat and creating melt-in-your-mouth dishes with minimal effort. This recipe for slow cooker pork chops and sweet potatoes is a testament to that. It's a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for a chilly autumn evening or a cozy weekend dinner. The sweet potatoes add a beautiful sweetness that complements the savory pork chops, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. Best of all, the hands-off cooking method means you can focus on other things while dinner practically cooks itself!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe excels because it balances simplicity with incredible flavor. The slow cooking process breaks down the pork chops, resulting in exceptionally tender and juicy meat. The sweet potatoes become incredibly soft and slightly caramelized, absorbing the delicious flavors of the cooking liquid. We've also included tips and tricks to elevate your culinary game, ensuring you achieve perfectly cooked pork chops and sweet potatoes every time.
What You'll Need:
- Pork Chops: About 1.5-2 lbs bone-in pork chops (about 4-6 chops). Thick-cut chops work best.
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves garlic, minced.
- Broth: 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider (for added sweetness).
- Seasoning: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary. Feel free to experiment with other spices like sage or cumin!
Instructions:
-
Sear the Pork Chops (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor and a nice sear, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't essential, but it adds depth of flavor.
-
Slow Cooker Assembly: Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the seared (or unseared) pork chops on top. Arrange the cubed sweet potatoes around the pork chops.
-
Season and Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth (or apple cider) over the ingredients. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary evenly over everything.
-
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are easily pierced with a fork and the sweet potatoes are tender.
-
Serve: Serve the pork chops and sweet potatoes directly from the slow cooker. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra touch of freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen pork chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but you'll need to increase the cooking time. Add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time for low setting and 30-60 minutes for high. It's always best to thaw the pork chops completely if possible for more even cooking.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or butternut squash. Just be sure to cut them into similarly sized pieces to the sweet potatoes to ensure even cooking. Adding a few apples could further enhance the sweetness.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
You can make this recipe healthier by using bone-in, skinless pork chops and reducing the amount of broth. Consider using low-sodium broth or apple cider to lower the sodium content. You could also add other vegetables for added fiber and nutrients.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Sear the pork chops (optional), then layer the ingredients in the Instant Pot. Add 1 cup of liquid, close the lid, and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pork chops and sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop.
This slow cooker recipe for pork chops and sweet potatoes is a simple, delicious, and versatile meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
