Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to cook pork chops? Look no further than slow cooking them in the oven!
This low-and-slow cooking method results in tender and flavorful pork chops that are perfect for a cozy fall evening. Whether you prefer bone-in sirloin chops or rib chops, this method is sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll explore different seasoning options and cooking techniques to help you achieve the perfect slow-cooked pork chop. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How To Slow Cook Pork Chops In The Oven?
To slow cook pork chops in the oven, start by preheating your oven to 300°F. While the oven is heating up, season your pork chops with your preferred seasoning. You can use a basic brine formula of 4 tablespoons of salt to 4 cups of water to add extra flavor and tenderness to your pork chops.
Next, brown your pork chops in a frying pan on medium to medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This will give them a nice brown color and add extra flavor.
Once your pork chops are browned, transfer them to a roaster pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Layer sliced onions on the bottom of the pan and place the pork chops on top, making sure they are in a single layer and not overlapping.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine water, dry gravy mix, gravy darkener, and cream of mushroom soup. Season this mixture with your preferred seasoning and pour it over the pork chops in the roaster pan.
If you like mushrooms, sauté thinly sliced fresh mushrooms in butter and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian dressing. You can either put a pile of mushrooms on top of each pork chop or mix them into the gravy.
Cover the roaster pan tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Do not remove the cover while baking as this will let out steam and dry out the pork chops.
Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with homemade mashed potatoes, vegetables, and salad for a complete meal.
Choosing The Right Pork Chops For Slow Cooking
When it comes to slow cooking pork chops in the oven, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. To ensure a tender and juicy result, it’s best to opt for thicker bone-in chops with a good amount of marbling and fat throughout. Cuts such as blade chop, shoulder chop, or sirloin chop are ideal for slow cooking as they have enough connective tissue to break down and become tender when cooked low and slow.
It’s important to avoid leaner cuts of pork chops as they won’t yield the same tender results. Additionally, bone-in chops are preferred over boneless as they add extra flavor and help insulate the meat, keeping it moist during the slow cooking process.
When selecting your pork chops, look for ones that are bright pink with visible marbling. Avoid any pork with discolorations or dark-colored bones as this can indicate spoilage.
By choosing the right cut of pork chops for slow cooking in the oven and following proper cooking techniques, you can enjoy a deliciously tender and flavorful meal.
Preparing Your Pork Chops For The Oven
Before slow cooking your pork chops in the oven, it’s important to properly prepare them. First, make sure to pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning stick better and prevent the pork chops from becoming too watery during cooking.
Next, rub the pork chops with olive oil to keep them moist and add flavor. You can also use other oils such as vegetable oil or coconut oil if you prefer. Once the pork chops are coated in oil, sprinkle them with your preferred seasoning. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or create your own using a combination of herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme.
If you want to add extra flavor to your pork chops, you can also marinate them overnight in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. This will infuse the pork chops with delicious flavors and make them more tender.
Finally, place the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet or roasting pan that has been coated with non-stick cooking spray. Make sure the pork chops are in a single layer and not overlapping to ensure even cooking. Cover the pan tightly with foil to keep the moisture in and prevent the pork chops from drying out.
By following these simple steps for preparing your pork chops for the oven, you’ll be able to slow cook them to perfection and enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal.
Seasoning Options For Slow Cooked Pork Chops
When it comes to seasoning your slow cooked pork chops, there are many options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. BBQ Seasoning: Mix together garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning on both sides of the pork chops before placing them in the slow cooker. Add a thin layer of BBQ sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker and scatter sliced onions on top.
2. Paprika and Garlic Powder: Season both sides of the pork chops with ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Rub the spice blend on the pork chops before placing them in the slow cooker with chicken broth.
3. Ranch Seasoning: In a slow cooker, combine condensed soup, garlic, thyme, pepper, ranch seasoning, and cornstarch until smooth. Season pork chops with pepper on both sides and place them in the slow cooker.
4. Basic Brine: To add extra flavor and tenderness to your pork chops, brine them in a solution of 4 tablespoons of salt to 4 cups of water for at least 30 minutes before seasoning and cooking.
5. Custom Blend: Create your own custom seasoning blend using your favorite herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, cumin, or chili powder.
No matter which seasoning option you choose, make sure to brown the pork chops before slow cooking for added flavor and texture. Serve hot with your favorite sides for a delicious meal that’s sure to please.
Slow Cooking Techniques For Tender And Juicy Pork Chops
Slow cooking pork chops is a great way to achieve tender and juicy meat. Here are some tips to ensure your pork chops turn out perfectly:
1. Choose the right cut: Opt for bone-in pork chops as they tend to be more flavorful and tender than boneless ones.
2. Brine the pork chops: Brining involves soaking the meat in a saltwater solution before cooking. This helps to add flavor and moisture to the meat, resulting in tender and juicy pork chops. To make a basic brine, mix 4 tablespoons of salt with 4 cups of water and soak the pork chops for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
3. Brown the pork chops: Before slow cooking, brown the pork chops in a skillet on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This will help to seal in the juices and add extra flavor to the meat.
4. Use a slow cooker: Slow cookers are a great tool for cooking pork chops as they allow for long, slow cooking which results in tender and juicy meat. After browning the pork chops, place them in the slow cooker with your preferred sauce or liquid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Rest after cooking: Once the pork chops are done cooking, remove them from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in even more flavor and tenderness.
By following these tips, you can create delicious and tender slow cooked pork chops that will satisfy your taste buds every time.
Serving Suggestions For Slow Cooked Pork Chops
Slow cooked pork chops make for a delicious and hearty meal that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most out of your slow cooked pork chops:
1. Serve with Mashed Potatoes: Slow cooked pork chops go great with creamy mashed potatoes. The gravy from the pork chops can be poured over the mashed potatoes for added flavor and richness.
2. Pair with Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and broccoli make for a healthy and delicious side dish to go with slow cooked pork chops. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven for a tasty and nutritious side dish.
3. Add Some Bread: A loaf of crusty bread can be the perfect addition to a meal featuring slow cooked pork chops. The bread can be used to soak up any leftover gravy or as a vehicle for making sandwiches with leftover pork chops.
4. Make a Salad: A light and refreshing salad can be a great contrast to the rich flavors of slow cooked pork chops. A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber dressed with balsamic vinaigrette can be the perfect complement to the meal.
5. Try Different Grains: Instead of serving pork chops with mashed potatoes, try pairing them with other grains such as rice, quinoa, or couscous. These grains can be cooked in broth or seasoned with herbs to add extra flavor to the dish.
With these serving suggestions, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal featuring slow cooked pork chops that your whole family will love.
