Prepare your taste buds for a journey of savory delights with our Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops Recipe. This delectable dish combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the zesty flavors of Italian dressing mix, resulting in tender, juicy pork chops that are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a comforting meal, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Join us as we dive into the culinary magic of this mouthwatering dish and learn how to create it in your own kitchen.
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
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
- Brown the Pork Chops:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, Italian dressing mix, and chicken broth. Stir until the brown sugar is dissolved.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker:
- Place the browned pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook on Low Heat:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Spoon the sauce from the slow cooker over the pork chops.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this savory dish.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For extra flavor, you can add sliced onions or bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the pork chops.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
Keto and Low Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low carb lifestyle, here’s how to adapt this recipe:
- Substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Use a low carb Italian dressing mix or make your own using keto-friendly herbs and spices.
- Serve the pork chops with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad for a low carb meal option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe? Yes, boneless pork chops can be used instead of bone-in chops. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless chops may cook faster.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely! Allow the pork chops to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Can I cook this recipe on high heat in the slow cooker? While it’s possible to cook the pork chops on high heat for a shorter period of time, we recommend cooking them on low heat for the best results. This allows the flavors to meld together and the pork chops to become tender and juicy.
- What side dishes pair well with these pork chops? These pork chops pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Feel free to get creative and customize the meal to your liking.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops Recipe is a testament to the magic of slow cooking. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these tender and juicy pork chops are sure to be a hit. So fire up your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a taste sensation that will leave you craving more!
