Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Apples

Mar 26, 2022Updated Oct 27, 2024

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Slow cooker pork chops and apples is an excellent combination of fantastic flavor and quick cooking time, making it an ideal family favorite. This is a recipe you’ll want to add to your recipe book!

close up of pork chops and apples in crockpot

Why this recipe works

When you’re pressed for time, this is the crockpot meal. With minimal ingredients, the prep time and short and sweet. The total time it takes to cook is quick, making this the ideal meal to start earlier in the day to have it fresh and ready by dinner time.

These crockpot pork chops are also ideal for those on specific eating plans such as Paleo, Clean Eating, or Gluten-Free. So if you’re looking to keep it healthy, there are no worries with this meal.

Recipe Ingredients

ingredients for pork chops and apples on a table

Pork Chops – The best kind of chops to use for this meal are center cut, boneless pork chops. They aren’t too thick and will cook to a tender finish.
Apples – We like granny smith tart apples and the tanginess they provide a dish.
Brown Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the dish. If you have a special diet, you can use a sugar substitue or leave it out.
Seasonings – Salt, pepper, cinnamon, and dried thyme add the finishing touches of flavor these crockpot pork chops need.

Step-by-Step Directions

collage on how to assemble pork chops and apples in slow cooker

Step One – Place pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker and add the apple slices on top.

Step Two – Combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and thyme in a small bowl.

Step Three – Sprinkle the seasoning mixture on top of the apples.

Step Four – Cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours and serve the juicy pork chops alongside some suggestions below.

What to serve with this

Mashed Potatoes: Although this can be served by itself, with a few extra apples on top, you can’t go wrong by putting it on a bed of garlic mashed potatoes.
Green Vegetable side: Another way to serve these chops is with a side of broccoli, green beans, or another green vegetable. This will add a variety of color and nutrients to the meal.
Sweet Potatoes: A side of sweet potatoes would offer another potato option that’s both colorful and flavorful.
Sliced Onions: If you’re looking for something fresh, offer sliced tomato and onion on the side as well.

Variations

Use different apple types. The first variation involves adding a couple of apple types. In addition to granny smith apples, you could also add Fuji apple slices. You’ll still get a wonderful apple taste.
Add honey. For a sweet variation, consider adding honey. A fourth to a half cup is the perfect amount to accompany the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Add sliced onions. If you’d like to add another ingredient, sliced sweet onion would be a perfect choice. You could slice them in small rings or in quarters. Add them to the crockpot with everything else and that’s it.

Recipes FAQs

How to store and reheat

Place the remaining meal in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, or in the freezer for three months. To reheat, add to a large skillet (or one that fits the amount of leftovers) and warm on medium heat until warmed throughout.

Can I use any apples, and do they need to be peeled?

You can use any apple kind of your choice, and peeling is optional. Keep in mind that different apples will yield different tastes and textures. Granny smith are often the firmest and most tart.

Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Absolutely! The cooking time even remains the same.

Should I brown the pork chops first?

Some recipes suggest browning them before cooking to seal in the juices and add caramelized flavor. I think you still get great results without browning and makes for easier cleanup.

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