Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Potatoes & Carrots

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Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Potatoes & Carrots

This recipe transforms humble pantry staples into a hearty, three-in-one meal. It’s perfect for busy weekdays when you want to walk into a house that smells like a Sunday roast.

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 4–5 hours (High) or 7–8 hours (Low)

  • Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

  • Pork: 4 bone-in center-cut pork chops (about 1-inch thick)

  • Vegetables: 1 lb baby gold potatoes (halved) and 3 large carrots (peeled and sliced into thick rounds)

  • Aromatics: 1 small yellow onion (sliced) and 3 cloves garlic (minced)

  • Liquid/Sauce: 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth mixed with 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • Seasoning: 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste

  • Optional: 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Base: Place the halved potatoes, carrots, and onions in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle with half of the thyme, salt, and pepper.

  2. Sear (Optional but Recommended): Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with paprika, remaining thyme, salt, and pepper. Sear for 2 minutes per side until golden brown.

  3. Layer: Place the pork chops on top of the vegetables in an even layer. Top with minced garlic.

  4. Add Liquid: Pour the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce mixture over the sides (try not to wash the seasoning off the meat).

  5. Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4–5 hours.

  6. Serve: Remove the chops carefully. Toss the vegetables in the remaining pot juices before serving.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Approximate values based on standard ingredients.

Calories Protein Fat Carbs Fiber
385 kcal 32g 14g 28g 4g

Tips for Success

  • Thickness Matters: Use thick-cut chops (at least 1 inch). Thin “breakfast” chops will dry out before the potatoes are tender.

  • The Sear Factor: Searing the meat locks in flavor and provides a better texture. If you’re in a rush, you can skip it, but the meat will look paler.

  • Don’t Over-liquid: You might think 1/2 cup of broth isn’t enough, but the pork and vegetables will release a lot of natural moisture.

Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Lean pork is an excellent source of high-quality protein and B vitamins (especially B12 and B6).

  • Beta-Carotene: The carrots provide a massive boost of Vitamin A for eye health.

  • Potassium: Gold potatoes are naturally high in potassium, which helps balance sodium levels.

Q&A

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops?

A: Yes, but they cook faster and tend to dry out more easily. If using boneless, check for doneness about an hour earlier.

Q: My potatoes are still hard. What happened?

A: Potatoes must be at the bottom of the slow cooker to soften. Also, ensure they are cut into small, uniform pieces (about 1-inch chunks).

Q: Can I thicken the juices into a gravy?

A: Absolutely! Remove the meat and veggies once done. Whisk 2 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water, stir it into the pot liquid, and cook on High for 15 minutes until thickened.

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