Fall is in the air, and that means it's time for comforting, flavorful meals. This slow cooker recipe for pork chops and sweet potatoes delivers just that – tender, juicy pork chops perfectly complemented by sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes. It's a simple, hands-off recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Forget tough, dry pork chops – this method guarantees succulent results every time!
What Makes This Recipe So Special?
This isn't your average slow cooker recipe. We've focused on maximizing flavor and texture. The slow cooking process ensures the pork chops remain incredibly moist and tender, while the sweet potatoes develop a beautiful caramelized sweetness. The simple seasoning blend enhances the natural flavors of both the pork and the sweet potatoes, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve restaurant-quality results at home!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Pork Chops: 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Apple Cider Vinegar (Optional): 1 tablespoon (adds depth of flavor)
- Chicken Broth (Optional): ½ cup (for extra moisture)
Instructions for Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes:
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Prep the Ingredients: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
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Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the pork chops.
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Layer in Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil. Place the seasoned pork chops on top of the onion and garlic mixture. Arrange the cubed sweet potatoes around the pork chops. If using, add the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth.
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Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).
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Serve: Remove the pork chops and sweet potatoes from the slow cooker and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of sweet potatoes?
Yes! You can experiment with different varieties of sweet potatoes, such as garnet yams or Japanese sweet potatoes. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the type of sweet potato used.
What if my pork chops are thicker?
For thicker pork chops (more than 1.5 inches), you may need to increase the cooking time. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips, or even some Brussels sprouts for extra flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of olive oil used, or use a cooking spray instead. Also, choose leaner cuts of pork chops if desired.
What can I serve with slow cooker pork chops and sweet potatoes?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or a side of crusty bread.
This slow cooker pork chop and sweet potato recipe is a winner for its simplicity, deliciousness, and versatility. Enjoy!
