Looking for an easy dinner that feels like a warm hug? These slow cooker garlic butter pork chops are exactly that. The pork turns out tender and juicy, and the buttery garlic sauce makes every bite taste rich and comforting.
Best of all, the slow cooker does most of the work. You spend about 15 minutes on prep, then let the pot handle dinner while you get through the rest of your day.
This recipe is a great fit for busy weeknights, family dinners, and cozy meals when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 4 hours on low with almost no hands-on time
- Budget-friendly, using common pantry staples
- Family favorite with a mild, savory flavor
- Beginner friendly, with simple steps and no searing required
- Tender meat that pairs well with rice, potatoes, or noodles
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, adjusted to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried thyme
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Ingredient notes: Bone-in chops add more flavor, but boneless chops work well and cook a little faster. Use low-sodium broth so the sauce doesn’t become too salty. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a pinch of dried thyme or oregano is a good swap.
Kitchen Equipment
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Paper towels
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Cutting board and knife
- Small mixing bowl
- Tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Dry meat helps the seasoning stick.
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Mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of each chop.
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Place the chops in the slow cooker in a single layer, overlapping them only if needed.
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Scatter the butter pieces and minced garlic over the chops.
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Pour the chicken broth around the edges of the pot, not directly over the seasoning, so the rub stays on the meat.
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Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. The pork is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer and the center looks slightly pink.
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Transfer the chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting keeps the juices in the meat.
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Stir the buttery garlic sauce in the slow cooker well. Spoon it over the chops and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Expert Tips
How to Avoid Dry Pork
Pork cooks quickly once it is close to done. Check the temperature around the 2-hour mark on high or the 3-hour mark on low. Pull the chops once they reach 145°F.
Best Side Ingredients
Add baby potatoes or sliced carrots to the bottom of the slow cooker before the chops. They soak up the garlic butter and cook alongside the meat.
Simple Shortcuts
Use minced garlic from a jar when you are short on time. Fresh garlic gives a brighter flavor, though, so use it when you can.
Variations
- Spicy: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes to the rub.
- Herb Lover: Stir in fresh rosemary and thyme with the butter.
- Lemon Garlic: Add 1 tbsp lemon juice to the sauce at the end.
- Low Carb: Skip any potatoes and serve over cauliflower rice.
- Kid Friendly: Use the mild seasoning and serve with buttered noodles.
- Air Fryer Version: Season the chops the same way and air fry at 380°F for 10 to 12 minutes, then toss them in the garlic butter.
What to Serve With
- Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
- Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
- Buttered egg noodles or steamed white rice
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Iced tea or sparkling water with lemon
- Apple crisp or vanilla pudding for dessert
Storage
Refrigerator
Store leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked chops with some sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a covered pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the sauce looks thick. Heat until the pork is hot all the way through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen pork chops?
It is safer to thaw them first. Frozen chops may not reach a safe temperature evenly in the slow cooker.
Can I skip the broth?
You can, but the broth helps create a flavorful sauce. Water works in a pinch, though the sauce will taste milder.
Do I need to sear the pork first?
No, searing is optional. The recipe is designed to be simple, so you can skip that step on busy nights.
Can I use thin pork chops?
Thin chops can dry out in a slow cooker. Choose chops about 1 inch thick for the best results.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Turn the slow cooker to high and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. It will thicken as the liquid reduces.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes. Portion the chops and sauce into containers with rice or vegetables for easy lunches during the week.
Nutrition
Approximate values per serving, based on 1 boneless pork chop with sauce:
- Calories: about 310
- Protein: about 30 g
- Fat: about 19 g
- Carbs: about 2 g
- Fiber: about 0 g
- Sugar: about 0 g
- Sodium: about 480 mg
Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.
Conclusion
I hope you give these slow cooker garlic butter pork chops a try soon. They are simple, comforting, and always a hit at my dinner table. Leave a comment to tell me how they turned out, and rate the recipe if you made it. Browse more recipes on our site for your next easy family dinner!
