If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful, and effortless dinner, look no further than these Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops. Combining the savory zest of Italian seasoning with the rich sweetness of brown sugar, this dish delivers tender, juicy pork chops that are sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The brown sugar caramelizes during the slow cooking process, creating a delightful glaze, while the Italian seasoning adds depth and aroma. The slow cooker ensures the pork chops are cooked to perfection, resulting in meat that’s tender and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in pork chops (about 3/4 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken brothFacebook+5cooktopcove.com+5Pinterest+5
Instructions
- Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Italian dressing mix, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.Plain Chicken+2cooktopcove.com+2Daily Recipes Blog+2
- Season the Pork Chops: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop.
- Sear the Pork Chops: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step enhances the flavor and locks in juices.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the seared pork chops into the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the chops.food.com+2Jersey Girl Cooks+2Upstate Ramblings+2
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.Upstate Ramblings+1Dinner, then Dessert+1
- Serve: Carefully remove the pork chops from the slow cooker. Serve hot, spooning some of the cooking juices over the top for added flavor.Upstate Ramblings
Serving Suggestions
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
- Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
- A fresh garden salad
- Buttered egg noodles or rice pilaf
Tips for Success
- Use Bone-In Chops: Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful and less likely to dry out during cooking.Maria’s Mixing Bowl+5Jersey Girl Cooks+5Upstate Ramblings+5
- Searing is Key: Don’t skip the searing step; it adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.Jersey Girl Cooks
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning mix to your taste. Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops after cooking and stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water into the cooking liquid. Cook on high for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place cooled pork chops in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm the pork chops in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Italian Pork Chops are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the tender, flavorful goodness that awaits!