Sweet potatoes and pork chops—a match made in culinary heaven! This hearty, comforting meal is incredibly easy to make in a slow cooker, leaving you with tender, flavorful pork and perfectly cooked sweet potatoes. The crock pot does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal effort. Let's dive into the details of creating this fall-favorite dish.
What Makes this Crock-Pot Recipe So Special?
This recipe stands out because it combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory richness of pork chops, all enhanced by simple seasonings. The slow cooking process ensures the pork remains incredibly juicy and tender, while the sweet potatoes become melt-in-your-mouth delicious. No more dry, overcooked pork chops! Plus, the hands-off nature of crock-pot cooking frees up your time to focus on other things.
How to Prepare Sweet Potatoes and Pork Chops in a Crock-Pot
Ingredients:
- 1.5 - 2 lbs bone-in pork chops (about 4-6 chops)
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sear the Pork Chops (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor, sear the pork chops in olive oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Layer in the Crock-Pot: Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker. Arrange the seared (or unseared) pork chops on top of the onions and garlic. Add the cubed sweet potatoes around the pork chops.
- Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients. Sprinkle with brown sugar (if using), thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. Internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Serve hot, possibly garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
What are the Best Types of Sweet Potatoes to Use?
While any sweet potato variety will work, some are better suited for this recipe than others. Garnet yams and Jewel yams are excellent choices due to their rich, deep flavor and creamy texture. However, regular sweet potatoes will also produce a delicious result.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in this Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Consider adding other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or butternut squash for added flavor and nutrition. You could also include other vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or green beans, but bear in mind these will cook faster than the sweet potatoes and pork.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the pork chops and sweet potatoes from the slow cooker once they're cooked. Then, increase the heat to high and simmer the remaining liquid until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency. You can also blend a portion of the sauce for a smoother texture. A cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) can also be stirred into the sauce during the thickening process.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Sweet Potatoes and Pork Chops in a Crock-Pot?
Cooking time varies depending on your slow cooker and the thickness of your pork chops. As a guideline, plan for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Always ensure the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving to guarantee it's cooked safely.
This recipe offers a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the convenience of crock-pot cooking!
