Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooked Cranberry Pork Chops Recipe
When you try this slow-cooked cranberry pork chops recipe, you’ll quickly realize why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The blend of sweet and tangy flavors creates a deliciously unique dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite sides.
I love how simple it’s to prepare; just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work! The aroma that fills my home while it cooks is irresistible, making everyone keen for dinner.
Plus, the pork chops turn out tender and juicy, practically falling off the bone. This recipe’s versatility means it suits any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients of Slow Cooked Cranberry Pork Chops
When it comes to making a mouthwatering dish that’s easy to whip up, you can’t go wrong with these slow-cooked cranberry pork chops. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in the delightful blend of flavors but also in the simplicity of the ingredients. You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to bring this dish to life.
Just gather your ingredients, toss them together in your trusty slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Oh, and the smell? It’s enough to make your stomach growl in anticipation.
Here’s what you need to make these scrumptious slow-cooked cranberry pork chops:
- 6 lean pork loin chops
- 1 (16 ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup cranberry juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
- Salt and pepper (or seasoning of your choice)
Now, while the ingredients are simple, they create a flavor profile that’s anything but basic. The jellied cranberry sauce brings a lovely sweetness, while the spicy brown mustard adds a kick that balances everything out.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even throw in some herbs or spices of your own to tailor the dish to your taste. And don’t worry if you can’t find pork loin chops; other cuts like boneless pork chops or even pork tenderloin could work just as well.
Just remember, the key to great flavors is in the cooking process—low and slow is the name of the game here. So, grab your slow cooker, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooked Cranberry Pork Chops
Making these slow-cooked cranberry pork chops is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier, since you don’t even have to bake anything. Start by taking 6 lean pork loin chops and giving them a little love. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper, or any seasoning that tickles your fancy. You know what I mean—maybe a dash of garlic powder or some Italian herbs? It’s your dinner, after all, so make it your own.
Now, let’s get to the fun part—mixing up that sauce. In a bowl, combine 1 (16 ounce) can of jellied cranberry sauce, 1/2 cup of cranberry juice, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of spicy brown mustard. Get in there with a whisk or a spoon and stir until it’s all blended and smooth. It should look like a beautiful, thick glaze that’s just begging to be poured over those chops.
Once you’ve got your sauce ready, pour it over the seasoned pork chops in your trusty slow cooker. If you don’t have a slow cooker, you might want to rethink your life choices—just kidding, you can always make these in the oven, but slow cooking is where the magic happens.
Now, set your slow cooker to low and let those chops simmer for about 4 to 5 hours. Yes, that’s right—just walk away and let it do its thing. Your kitchen will smell incredible, and trust me, your stomach will be thanking you later.
When the time’s up, grab a fork and dig in. The pork chops will be fall-apart tender, bathed in that sweet and tangy sauce. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is ridiculously simple to prepare. So, kick back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your minimal labor. Who said dinner had to be complicated?
Slow Cooked Cranberry Pork Chops Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basics of making slow-cooked cranberry pork chops, you might be curious about how to switch things up.
One easy substitution is using chicken breasts instead of pork chops; just adjust the cooking time to 3-4 hours on low.
If you want a bit more heat, try adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or swapping out the spicy brown mustard for Dijon.
For a tangy twist, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
You can also mix in other fruits, like chopped apples or pears, to complement the cranberry flavor.
These variations keep the dish exciting while maintaining that delicious taste!
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Cranberry Pork Chops
While slow-cooked cranberry pork chops are a delightful centerpiece, choosing the right sides can elevate your meal even further.
I love pairing these savory chops with creamy mashed potatoes, as they soak up the delicious cranberry sauce beautifully. Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans add a nice crunch and balance the dish’s sweetness.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh spinach salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly. For a hearty touch, consider serving some warm, crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
Don’t forget a side of applesauce for that classic pork pairing! With these sides, your slow-cooked cranberry pork chops will shine even brighter on the dinner table.
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your slow-cooked cranberry pork chops turn out perfect, I recommend using bone-in chops for added flavor and moisture.
If you can’t find bone-in, lean pork loin chops will work too, but they might be a little drier.
Don’t forget to adjust the cooking time if you’re using thicker or thinner chops.
For a little twist, you can add herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the taste.
If you prefer a spicier kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes.
Finally, save any leftover sauce—it’s great for drizzling over mashed potatoes or rice.
Trust me, these tips will elevate your dish and impress your family or guests! Enjoy your delicious meal!