Crock-Pot Italian Pork Chops
Tender pork chops simmer in a savory tomato and vegetable sauce with aromatic herbs, making a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 lean pork chops (1-inch thick, excess fat removed) ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sherry
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon parsley flakes ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon basil
- 2 medium green peppers, cut into thin strips ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown the pork chops on both sides on the stovetop.
- Drain the chops on paper towels and set aside.
- Place sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic in the bottom of the crock-pot.
- Arrange the browned pork chops on top of the vegetables.
- Pour tomato sauce, sherry, lemon juice, parsley flakes, oregano, and basil over the pork chops.
- Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
- Before serving, turn the crock-pot to high and place green pepper strips on top of the pork chops.
- Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mix of lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before browning. If you don't have sherry, white wine or chicken broth can be suitable substitutes. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, and for a heartier dish, toss in some diced potatoes or carrots along with the mushrooms and onions. This dish pairs well with Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops over a bed of cooked rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of Tossed Italian Salad adds a refreshing crunch, while garlic bread makes for a great accompaniment. This dish is also delightful when paired with Paul Varnell'S Spaghetti for a complete Italian-themed meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, checking to avoid overcooking. The flavors will meld even more as they sit, enhancing the taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Italian Pork Chops contains roughly 376 calories, with 15g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (109% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), and calcium (63% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 23g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents the chops from becoming tough. If you must use them frozen, add an extra hour to the cooking time for best results.
Can I add other vegetables to the Crock-Pot?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as firmer vegetables may need to be added earlier in the process.
What can I do if the sauce is too acidic?
If you find the sauce too acidic, you can balance the flavors by adding a teaspoon of sugar or honey. Alternatively, a splash of cream can also help mellow the acidity, making the sauce richer and smoother.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).