Indulge in the savory and sweet flavors of our Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops recipe. With tender bone-in pork chops cooked to perfection in a delectable blend of brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this easy slow cooker recipe is a must-try. Join us as we dive into the art of slow cooking and learn how to create a dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in pork chops, about 3/4 inch thick
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Italian dressing mix, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned. Transfer the pork chops to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
- Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, around the pork chops.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Optional: To thicken the sauce, pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to your desired consistency.
- Serve the pork chops hot, spooning the sauce over the top. Enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
- For a caramelized finish, you can broil the pork chops in the oven for a few minutes after cooking in the slow cooker.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning blend by adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- If you prefer boneless pork chops, you can use them instead of bone-in chops. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in chops.
Q: Can I use a different type of seasoning mix? A: Yes, you can experiment with different seasoning mixes to suit your taste preferences. Try ranch dressing mix or taco seasoning for a flavorful twist.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the pork chops and seasoning mixture ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply follow the instructions for cooking in the slow cooker when you’re ready to enjoy.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few simple substitutions to create a version of Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops that fits your dietary needs:
- Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Use homemade Italian seasoning mix with dried herbs to avoid added sugars and carbs.
- Serve the pork chops with low-carb sides such as cauliflower mash or steamed vegetables instead of traditional carb-heavy options.
With these substitutions, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops while staying within your dietary goals.
Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops are a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, these tender pork chops are sure to impress. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops. Your taste buds will thank you!
