Slow Cooker Amish Pork Chops and Apples
Description
Slow Cooker Amish Pork Chops and Apples is a comforting, homestyle dish featuring tender pork chops slow-cooked with sweet apples, onions, and warm spices. The combination of savory pork and naturally sweet fruit creates a rich and cozy flavor that’s perfect for family dinners, chilly evenings, or traditional comfort meals. This easy crockpot recipe delivers juicy pork with minimal effort and a delicious sweet-savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup chicken broth or apple juice
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Pork
Season pork chops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients
Place sliced apples and onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add pork chops on top.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over everything. Pour in chicken broth or apple juice and add butter pieces on top.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
- On LOW for 6–7 hours
or - On HIGH for 3–4 hours
The pork should become tender and flavorful.
Step 6: Optional Thickening
For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water together. Stir into the slow cooker during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Recipe Notes
- Sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji work best.
- Bone-in pork chops stay especially juicy during slow cooking.
- Apple juice creates a sweeter sauce, while broth gives a savory flavor.
- The sauce naturally thickens slightly as it cooks.
Tips for Best Results
- Searing adds extra flavor and color.
- Avoid overcooking to keep pork tender.
- Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra herb flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Servings
Serves: 4
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 420mg
(Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits
- Pork provides protein and important B vitamins.
- Apples contain fiber and antioxidants.
- Slow cooking helps create tender meat with minimal added fat.
- Homemade meals reduce reliance on processed foods.
- Balanced sweet and savory flavors make this a satisfying comfort meal.
Q&A About Slow Cooker Amish Pork Chops and Apples
Q: What apples work best for this recipe?
Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith apples all work well.
Q: Can I skip searing the pork chops?
Yes, but searing adds richer flavor and color.
Q: Can I use pork loin instead of pork chops?
Absolutely. Pork loin can also be slow-cooked with the same flavors.
Q: What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, stuffing, rice, green beans, or roasted carrots pair wonderfully.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with dairy-free butter or olive oil.