Tender, juicy pork chops cooked low and slow in a rich butter garlic sauce with savory herbs and a delicious, comforting flavor. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you want a satisfying homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours on LOW or 1½–2½ hours on HIGH, depending on thickness
- Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Cooking Method: Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, optional for searing
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water, optional for thickening the sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings adhere to the meat. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops, pressing gently so the flavors stick to the meat.
2. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional)
For a deeper, richer flavor, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for approximately 2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
This step is optional, so you can skip it when you need a quick, hands-off dinner. Searing adds color and flavor but is not required for slow cooking.
3. Make the Butter Garlic Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
Arrange the seasoned pork chops in a single layer in the slow cooker when possible. Pour the broth mixture around and over the meat. Distribute the butter pieces over the pork chops.
As the butter melts and the garlic cooks, the broth develops a savory, buttery sauce that helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.
4. Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW for approximately 3–4 hours or on HIGH for about 1½–2½ hours, adjusting for the thickness of the pork chops and your slow cooker.
Avoid lifting the lid repeatedly, as this releases heat and can extend the cooking time. Thin pork chops cook faster than thick ones, so begin checking early.
For food safety, cook pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), measured with a food thermometer at the thickest part, followed by a 3-minute rest. If you prefer a more tender, fall-apart texture, longer cooking may be needed, but lean pork chops can become dry if overcooked.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker garlic butter sauce, carefully transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate and keep them warm.
Pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir together the cornstarch and cold water, then gradually whisk the mixture into the simmering liquid. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
Alternatively, stir the cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker liquid and cook on HIGH for another 10–15 minutes, until thickened.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Return the pork chops to the sauce or spoon the sauce generously over each serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Serve immediately while warm, making sure each pork chop gets plenty of that delicious butter garlic sauce.
What to Serve with Butter Garlic Pork Chops
These pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of comforting side dishes:
- Mashed potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the buttery garlic sauce.
- Steamed green beans: Add freshness and a little crunch.
- Roasted carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory pork.
- Rice: A simple side that absorbs the flavorful sauce.
- Roasted broccoli: A delicious vegetable option for a balanced dinner.
- Dinner rolls: Ideal for enjoying every last bit of sauce.
For a complete family meal, serve the pork chops with mashed potatoes and green beans.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Choose chops of similar thickness. This helps them cook more evenly and makes it easier to avoid overcooking thinner pieces.
Use enough cooking liquid. The broth provides moisture and combines with the butter and garlic to create a flavorful sauce. The pork chops do not need to be completely submerged.
Do not overcook lean pork. Boneless pork chops can dry out quickly, especially when they are thin. Check the internal temperature early and use a meat thermometer.
Adjust the garlic to your taste. Four cloves provide a balanced garlic flavor, but you can add more if you love a stronger taste.
Make the sauce your own. A little extra Italian seasoning, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can add a delicious finishing touch.
Storage and Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool slightly, then refrigerate them in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Store the pork chops with some of the sauce to help prevent them from drying out.
- Refrigerator: Store for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a little sauce or broth, or microwave in short intervals until heated through to 165°F (74°C).
Thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes! Boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Since they can cook faster and dry out more easily, check them early and avoid leaving them in the slow cooker longer than necessary.
Can I skip searing the pork chops?
Absolutely. Searing is optional. You can season the pork chops and place them directly into the slow cooker with the garlic broth and butter.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt and adjust the seasoning after cooking.
Why are my pork chops dry?
Pork chops may become dry if they are too thin or cooked for too long. Use chops of similar thickness, check their temperature early, and remember that slow cookers vary in heat and cooking speed.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can measure the seasonings, mince the garlic, and prepare the broth mixture ahead of time. Keep prepared ingredients refrigerated, and assemble the recipe when you are ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
These Juicy Slow Cooker Butter Garlic Pork Chops are an easy, comforting dinner made with simple ingredients and plenty of savory flavor. The combination of tender pork, melted butter, fragrant garlic, and herbs creates a delicious sauce that makes every bite satisfying.
Serve them with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or rice for a family-friendly meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week.