Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these apple brown sugar pork chops will become a favorite.
-
Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
-
No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
-
Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
-
Sweet and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
-
Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pork and apples.
-
Budget-friendly. Pork chops, apples, and sugar are inexpensive.
-
Perfect for fall and holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Servings: 4
-
4 thick-cut boneless pork chops (about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick)
-
3 large firm apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 4 cups)
-
1 cup packed light brown sugar
-
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, sliced
Ingredient Notes
Pork chops: Use thick-cut boneless pork chops.
Apples: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a glaze.
Butter: Adds richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 2: Layer the Apples and Sugar
Spread half of the sliced apples in an even layer over the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar evenly over the apples.
Step 3: Add the Pork Chops
Lay the pork chops in a single layer over the sugared apples.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Apples and Sugar
Cover the pork chops with the remaining apple slices. Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar evenly over the top apples. Dot the top with the sliced butter.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours, until the pork chops are very tender and the apples are soft and golden.
Step 6: Serve
Carefully lift the pork chops out with a wide spatula. Spoon the apples and plenty of the glaze over each chop to serve.
How to Serve Apple Brown Sugar Pork Chops
These sweet, savory pork chops are delicious on their own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes are a classic pairing.
With Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the glaze.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the glaze.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Bone-In Chops: Use bone-in pork chops.
Make It with Different Apples: Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Make It with Different Sugar: Use dark brown sugar.
Make It with Cinnamon: Add ground cinnamon.
Make It with Nutmeg: Add ground nutmeg.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Onion: Add sliced onion.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Use firm apples. They hold their shape better.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Let the pork rest before serving. This keeps it tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Chicken thighs or pork tenderloin can be used.
Can I use a different fruit?
Yes. Pears can be used.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes. Maple syrup or honey can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The apples released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more spices?
Yes. Add cinnamon or nutmeg.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes. Use thick-cut boneless chops.
The Beauty of Slow Cooker Pork and Apples
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, sweet, savory pork chop dinner that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. These apple brown sugar pork chops are a celebration of all those things.
Keep pork chops in your freezer. Keep apples, brown sugar, and butter in your kitchen. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours on LOW
Total Time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours
Yield: 4 servings