Crock Pot Apple Pork Chops Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the comforting combination of juicy pork chops and sweet, spiced apples slow-cooked to perfection. This Crock Pot Apple Pork Chops recipe brings together tender pork with the warmth of cinnamon, the earthiness of thyme, and the natural sweetness of apples and brown sugar. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is a heartwarming meal that’ll have your home smelling amazing!
Equipment
- Tools You’ll Need
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker): A 6-quart size works well for this recipe.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the apples and onion.
- Measuring Spoons: Essential for accurate seasoning.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork is perfectly cooked.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 2 medium-sized apples sliced (use a sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp or Gala)
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1 cup unsweetened apple sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the Pork Chops
- Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This helps enhance the pork's natural flavor and brings out the deliciousness of the slow-cooked apple sauce.
- Step 2: Arrange in the Crock Pot
- Place the seasoned pork chops in the bottom of your Crock Pot.
- Step 3: Layer the Apples and Onion
- Layer the sliced apples and onion evenly over the pork chops. The apples will add sweetness, while the onions provide a savory balance.
- Step 4: Add the Apple Sauce and Brown Sugar
- Drizzle the unsweetened apple sauce over the apples and pork chops, then sprinkle the brown sugar over the top. This step adds the sweet element that will caramelize beautifully as it cooks.
- Step 5: Season with Spices
- Sprinkle the ground cinnamon, garlic powder, and dried thyme over the top. These spices enhance the overall flavor, giving the dish warmth and a hint of earthiness.
- Step 6: Cover and Cook
- Cover the Crock Pot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process makes the pork chops incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Step 7: Check for Doneness
- Before serving, ensure the pork chops have reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F using a meat thermometer.
- Step 8: Serve
- Once cooked, serve the pork chops with a generous spoonful of the apple mixture on top. Enjoy this cozy, flavorful dish!
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
No Applesauce? Substitute with apple juice for a lighter sauce.
Sweeter Option: Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Add Extra Veggies: Try adding sliced carrots or sweet potatoes for a more filling meal.
Herb Options: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different flavor twist.
No Applesauce? Substitute with apple juice for a lighter sauce.
Sweeter Option: Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Add Extra Veggies: Try adding sliced carrots or sweet potatoes for a more filling meal.
Herb Options: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different flavor twist.