Slow Cooked Pork Chops With Apples
Tender slow-cooked pork chops paired with sweet apples and warm spices create a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place pork chops in a slow cooker.
- Slice the apple and place over pork chops.
- Put 1 teaspoon brown sugar on each apple and pork chop.
- Place 1 teaspoon butter on each apple and pork chop.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Pour apple cider over everything, ensuring it covers all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 10 hours.
- Serve the apples with the pork chops.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in apple cider for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. For a twist, try adding a handful of walnuts or raisins for added texture and sweetness. This dish is inspired by classic American recipes that highlight the sweet and savory combination.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the slow-cooked pork chops with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed green beans for a complete meal. A fresh side salad, such as a Classic Cobb Salad, also pairs well. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. The sweet apples complement the savory pork beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops and apples in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over low heat until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Slow Cooked Pork Chops With Apples contains roughly 57 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value).
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 bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops, but cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly. Bone-in chops may require an additional hour of cooking to ensure they are tender and fully cooked since they generally take longer to cook than boneless cuts.
What type of apple is best for this recipe?
Jonathan or Winesap apples are recommended for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. However, you can also use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the apples are firm so they hold their shape during the slow cooking process.
Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker?
Absolutely! Root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Just cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that the cooking time may increase slightly depending on the added ingredients.
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).