Season the Dish: Sprinkle fresh thyme (or dried thyme) over the pork chops and sweet potatoes. Pour the chicken broth around the edges of the dish, ensuring it covers the bottom but doesn’t drown the pork chops. Add brown sugar for a touch of sweetness, if desired.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops will become tender, and the sweet potatoes will cook down into a soft, flavorful base.
Serve: Once cooked, gently remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and stir the sweet potatoes to mix with the juices. Serve the pork chops over a bed of sweet potatoes, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed greens like spinach or broccoli to add freshness and balance out the richness.
For a bit of tang, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon over the pork chops.
Storing:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the dish moist.
For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store the pork chops and sweet potatoes separately in freezer-safe containers for best results.
Make-Ahead:
You can prepare this dish the night before by chopping the sweet potatoes, onions, and garlic, and searing the pork chops. Store everything in the slow cooker insert in the fridge and cook it the next day for an even quicker, stress-free meal.
Variants:
Pork Chops with Apples: For a slightly sweeter, fall-inspired version, add a few sliced apples to the slow cooker along with the sweet potatoes. The natural sweetness from the apples will complement the pork beautifully.
Vegetarian Option: If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the pork chops for portobello mushrooms or a meat substitute. Adjust the seasoning as needed to accommodate the new flavors.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick. This adds depth and warmth to the dish without overwhelming the natural flavors.
With Carrots: If you enjoy extra vegetables, toss in a couple of chopped carrots with the sweet potatoes. They will add a touch of sweetness and color to the meal.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen pork chops for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen pork chops. However, make sure to add an extra hour to the cooking time, especially if cooking on low, to ensure they reach the proper temperature and tenderness.
Can I cook this dish on high in the slow cooker? Absolutely! If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will work just fine, though the pork chops may not be as tender as when cooked on low for a longer time.
Can I make this recipe without searing the pork chops? Yes! While searing adds flavor and color to the pork chops, you can skip this step and simply place the pork chops directly into the slow cooker with the other ingredients. They will still cook perfectly.
Can I use other vegetables in place of sweet potatoes? While sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor. Keep in mind that different vegetables may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
What can I do if I don’t have chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water in a pinch. For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a bouillon cube to the liquid.
Conclusion: Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that combines ease and flavor. With minimal preparation and a few simple ingredients, this recipe results in a tender, savory meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to dish. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this slow cooker recipe, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite additions and variations!
ADVERTISEMENT
