Crock Pot Pork Chops

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for my easy slow cooker pork chops recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.

• Pork Chops – I used bone-in pork chops for extra flavor, but boneless pork chops work as well. Although I always recommend thick cut (at least 1 inch thick), the slow cooker is more forgiving than other methods with thin cut pork chops.
• Olive Oil – For searing the pork and sauteing the onions. You can also use avocado oil, coconut oil, or any other heat-safe oil.
• Aromatics – A.k.a. garlic and onion! Fresh garlic will give you the best flavor, but 2 teaspoons of jarred minced garlic or even 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder works to save time. Any color onion is fine, but I don’t recommend skipping it, as it’s a main component of the gravy.
• Chicken Broth – I prefer reduced-sodium, but you can use regular or even homemade chicken broth. For added richness and a deeper flavor, swap in bone broth.
• Worcestershire Sauce – I added this for umami flavor and subtle sweetness in these Crock Pot pork chops. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can try using soy sauce (if it fits your lifestyle), coconut aminos, or another soy sauce alternative.
• Dijon Mustard – I’ve also tried yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard, but they’re more intense so I needed a bit less.
• Fresh Herbs – I put fresh thyme and rosemary in my slow cooker pork chops recipe, because they’re great for fall and are hearty enough to stand up to slow cooking. You can also use parsley, sage, or oregano. If you only have dried herbs, use 2 teaspoons in place of the 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs. I’ve done this with Italian seasoning and it turned out great.
• Arrowroot Powder – My favorite clean-ingredient cornstarch substitute for thickening the sauce. You could also use cornstarch, though. For a low carb option, substitute 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum.
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper – Or you can use my pork chop seasoning for extra flavor.

How To Cook Pork Chops In The Crock Pot

I have step-by-step photos here to help you visualize the recipe. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.

1. Season the pork chops. Pat dry with paper towels first. (I always dry my meats to help them sear better and stay juicy.) Then, sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear both sides. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet (or other large skillet) over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear on each side until golden brown. Remove and place in a Crock Pot (I have this one).

3. Saute the aromatics. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Make the gravy. Sprinkle the arrowroot powder over the onions and garlic, stir to combine, and cook until a slurry forms. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened slightly. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary.
5. Slow cook. Pour the gravy over the pork chops in the Crock Pot. Make sure it covers them evenly. Cover and cook until tender. I sometimes garnish with more fresh herbs for serving.

Serving Ideas

I always serve these Crock Pot pork chops over some kind of base to soak up that yummy gravy. I did mashed cauliflower above, but you can also go with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, rice, cauliflower rice, or even your favorite noodles. Sometimes I add sauteed mushrooms or roasted mushrooms on top for extra flavor.

If you want a veggie on the side, I recommend my fried cabbage,air fryer green beans, or sauteed broccoli for easy options. You could also just throw some root vegetables into the slow cooker with the pork.