In the realm of comfort food, few dishes rival the heartiness and satisfaction of creamy garlic pork chops paired with tender mushrooms and potatoes. This crockpot recipe takes the classic flavors to a new level of convenience and deliciousness. Set it and forget it, and return to a meal that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Let’s embark on a culinary journey with this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Layer the Crockpot:
- Place the halved baby potatoes in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Top with the sliced mushrooms.
- Add the Pork Chops:
- Nestle the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes and mushrooms.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for searing the pork chops, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook in the Crockpot:
- Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the pork chops, mushrooms, and potatoes in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the pork chops during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra cheesy indulgence.
- Vegetable Medley: Add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or bell peppers to the crockpot for a well-rounded meal.
- Spice it Up: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce.
- Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, sage, or parsley to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the baby potatoes with cauliflower florets to keep the dish low in carbs while maintaining its creamy goodness.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Reduce the amount of potatoes used or omit them entirely to lower the carb content of the dish. You can also use a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops instead? A: Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chops may take slightly longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: While the heavy cream adds richness to the dish, you can substitute it with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or almond milk. Just be mindful that the flavor and consistency may vary slightly.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: What can I serve with creamy garlic pork chops? A: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or a crisp green salad.
Indulge in the ultimate comfort with this crockpot creamy garlic pork chops recipe. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it to your dietary preferences, one thing is certain – each bite will be a taste sensation. So fire up your crockpot and get ready to savor the creamy goodness of this irresistible dish!
