Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Pork Chops & Onions Recipe (Tender & Flavorful)
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed dinner, these Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Pork Chops with Onions are the perfect choice. The pork chops come out incredibly tender, infused with herbs, onions, and a balance of savory-sweet flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, your slow cooker does all the work for you!
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep since it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Set it and forget it: Minimal prep, maximum flavor.
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Tender & juicy pork chops: Slow cooking ensures melt-in-your-mouth results.
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Versatile flavor profile: Sweet, tangy, and herby with optional spice.
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Family-friendly dinner idea: A wholesome dish that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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4 bone-in pork chops – Adds more flavor and stays juicy while slow cooking.
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1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning and sealing in juices.
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1 teaspoon salt – Seasoning base.
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½ teaspoon black pepper – For depth of flavor.
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds savory umami richness.
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2 tablespoons brown sugar – Balances tangy and savory notes with a hint of sweetness.
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Brightens and tenderizes the meat.
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1 teaspoon garlic powder – A must-have for seasoning pork.
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1 yellow onion, sliced – Provides sweetness and depth.
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1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme – Herb-infused flavor while cooking.
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2 tablespoons salted butter, sliced – Adds richness and moisture.
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Pork Chops
Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Rub them with salt and black pepper to season both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. (This step locks in flavor and gives a beautiful caramelized crust.)
Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned pork chops into the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Pour this mixture over the pork chops.
Step 5: Add Aromatics
Top with sliced yellow onions and place the fresh rosemary (or thyme) sprig on top.
Step 6: Add Butter & Heat
Dot the pork chops with sliced butter and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Step 7: Slow Cook
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On Low: Cook for 6–8 hours until the pork chops are fork-tender.
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On High: Cook for 3–4 hours for a quicker option.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Carefully remove the pork chops from the slow cooker. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies. Spoon some of the onion-herb sauce over the top for extra flavor.
Variations & Tips
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For a sweeter twist: Add a sliced apple to the slow cooker for natural sweetness.
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For smoky flavor: Stir in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika with the seasoning mix.
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For more heat: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
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Make-ahead friendly: Prep all ingredients the night before, refrigerate, then start the slow cooker in the morning.
Best Side Dishes to Serve
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Steamed green beans or broccoli
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Garlic butter rice
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Roasted root vegetables
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A fresh garden salad
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze pork chops with sauce in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with extra sauce to prevent drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Herb-Infused Pork Chops & Onions recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With its rich flavors, tender meat, and minimal hands-on cooking, it’s a dish your family will request again and again.