Busy weeknights don't have to mean sacrificing a delicious and healthy dinner. This 3-ingredient crock pot pork chop recipe is the perfect solution for anyone looking for a simple, flavorful, and effortless meal. With minimal prep time and cleanup, you'll have juicy, tender pork chops ready in just a few hours. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy customization to suit your taste preferences.
What You'll Need:
- Bone-in Pork Chops: About 1.5 - 2 pounds. Bone-in pork chops retain moisture better during the slow cooking process, resulting in extra tender and flavorful results.
- Crock Pot Liner (Optional but Recommended): This makes cleanup a breeze!
- Chicken Broth (or Water): One cup. This provides the liquid necessary for slow cooking and adds moisture to the pork chops.
Instructions:
- Place Pork Chops in Crock Pot: Simply place your bone-in pork chops in the bottom of your slow cooker. No need for seasoning or any other ingredients at this stage; the simplicity is the beauty of this recipe.
- Add Liquid: Pour one cup of chicken broth (or water) into the bottom of the crock pot, ensuring the liquid doesn't completely submerge the pork chops. A shallow layer is sufficient.
- Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking time will vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chops and your slow cooker.
Serving Suggestions:
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Serve these 3-ingredient crock pot pork chops with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for pork chops.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots add a healthy and flavorful element.
- Simple Salad: A green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pork chops.
- Gravy: You can easily make a gravy using the pan drippings from the crock pot after cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but keep in mind that they may dry out slightly more easily than bone-in chops during the slow cooking process. Consider reducing the cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.
What kind of chicken broth should I use?
You can use low-sodium chicken broth or even water if you prefer a less salty dish. The broth mainly serves to keep the pork chops moist.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This guarantees that the pork chops are cooked safely and thoroughly.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on simplicity, you can easily customize it by adding other ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, or a splash of apple cider vinegar for added flavor. Experiment and find what you enjoy best.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the pork chops and broth in the crock pot the night before and let it cook on low overnight.
Conclusion:
This 3-ingredient crock pot pork chop recipe is a winner for its simplicity, ease of preparation, and delicious results. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers tender, juicy pork chops with minimal effort. Try it tonight and experience the convenience and flavor for yourself! Remember to adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker and the thickness of your pork chops. Enjoy!
