Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes

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Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes

Ready for a dinner that practically cooks itself, tastes amazing, and fills your home with the most comforting aroma? This Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes recipe is the ultimate busy weeknight savior. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it delivers tender, juicy pork chops and perfectly cooked sweet potatoes in one pot.

It’s hearty, wholesome, and guaranteed to become a go-to in your family’s meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless One-Pot Dinner – Just layer everything in the slow cooker and walk away.
• Tender, Juicy Pork Chops – Slow cooking keeps the meat moist and flavorful.
• Naturally Sweet & Savory – Sweet potatoes and apple cider balance the smoky paprika and thyme.
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food – A cozy meal everyone will love.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Makes great leftovers for lunches or busy nights.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup apple cider (or apple juice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 4–6 hrs (high) or 6–8 hrs (low) | Servings: 4

Step 1: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and thyme.

Step 2: Sear the Chops (Optional but Recommended)

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds a rich, caramelized flavor but can be skipped if you’re pressed for time.

Step 3: Layer the Slow Cooker

Place the sweet potatoes and onion in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, apple cider, and brown sugar. Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes and onions.

Step 5: Add the Pork Chops

Place the seared pork chops on top of the vegetables.

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–6 hours, until pork is tender and sweet potatoes are fork-soft.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you’d like a gravy-like sauce: Mix cornstarch and cold water into a slurry. Stir into the slow cooker liquid during the last 30 minutes, or after cooking. Let it simmer until thickened.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer pork chops and sweet potatoes to plates. Spoon sauce over top and garnish with parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Choose Thick Chops: At least 1-inch thick ensures juicy, tender pork. Thin chops can dry out.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: Adds rich flavor and better texture.
• Flavor Boost: Add a cinnamon stick or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
• Meal Prep Tip: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

FAQ

Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes—bone-in works beautifully. Just add 30–45 minutes to the cook time.

Q: What if I don’t have apple cider?
Apple juice works well, or substitute with extra chicken broth + 1 teaspoon vinegar for tang.

Q: Can I add more veggies?
Definitely! Try carrots, parsnips, or even butternut squash. Just cut them into chunks.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before. Refrigerate, then cook the next day.

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Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Sweet Potatoes

Tender, juicy pork chops and sweet potatoes slow-cooked in a savory-sweet broth.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 minutes mins

Total Time 6 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 boneless pork chops 1-inch thick
• 2 medium sweet potatoes cubed
• 1 large onion chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup apple cider or apple juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water optional, for thickening
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large skillet (for searing, optional but recommended)
• Sharp chef’s knife & cutting board
• Mixing bowl & whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs (for handling pork chops)
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Method

 

1. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic, and thyme.
2. (Optional) Sear chops 2–3 mins per side in hot oil.
3. Layer sweet potatoes and onion in slow cooker.
4. Mix broth, cider, and sugar; pour over veggies.
5. Place pork chops on top.
6. Cook: Low 6–8 hrs or High 4–6 hrs.
7. (Optional) Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce.
8. Serve hot with sauce and parsley garnish.

Notes

Bone-in chops require longer cooking.

Store leftovers up to 3 days in fridge.

Great with steamed green beans or a fresh salad.