Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

These Crock Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops offer an easy way to enjoy juicy, tender pork chops smothered in a rich and flavorful creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dinner that feels special. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting to keep the pork chops moist while infusing every bite with garlic, parmesan, and Italian herbs.

I first tried this recipe on a chilly weekend, and the house smelled incredible all day long. Now it’s a regular request in my home when I want an effortless but impressive dinner.

Ingredients

• Thick boneless pork chops: Important to choose chops that are at least one inch thick to stay tender and juicy during slow cooking. Bone in chops can work but adjust cooking time accordingly
• Italian seasoning: Brings a classic herb flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic and parmesan. You can swap for creole or cajun seasoning if you want a little extra kick
• All purpose flour: Helps create a slight coating on the pork chops for browning and thickens the sauce later
• Salted butter: Adds richness and flavor when searing the pork and cooking the sauce. Unsalted butter is fine but you may want to add a pinch of salt later
• Onion powder: Enhances savory depth without the texture of raw onions
• Fresh garlic: The star of the recipe for a fragrant bold taste. Fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch
• Heavy cream: Delivers the creaminess that makes the sauce luxurious. Milk is a thinner substitute if you prefer a lighter sauce
• Cream cheese: Adds tangy richness and helps thicken the sauce. Soften it before using for easy mixing
• Chicken broth: Balances the cream and adds subtle savory notes. Use low sodium to control salt levels
• Shredded parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a sharp, nutty flavor. You can try Romano or mozzarella as alternatives depending on your preference

Instructions

Sear the Pork Chops:

Pat the pork chops dry on both sides with paper towels. Sprinkle salt, pepper, half a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and flour evenly on each chop, pressing gently to adhere. Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of butter, swirling to coat the bottom. Add two pork chops to the pan and cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until they release easily and develop a golden brown crust. Flip and sear the opposite side for another 2 to 3 minutes. Remove these chops to a plate and repeat this process with the remaining chops using another tablespoon of butter. Remember you’re only browning the exterior, not cooking them through.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce:

Reduce the heat to low and melt the last tablespoon of butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to one minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, cream cheese, chicken broth, and sprinkle in the onion powder and remaining one tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Whisk continuously and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Gradually add the parmesan cheese in quarter cup increments, whisking to melt each addition fully before adding more. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper as needed.

Slow Cook the Pork Chops:

Spray the bottom of a 5 to 6 quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the seared pork chops in a single layer as much as possible—they can slightly overlap. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the pork. Cover and cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours. Check doneness by using a meat thermometer; the pork chops are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 145 Fahrenheit degrees.

Serve:

Serve hot with your favorite sides like roasted baby potatoes and steamed green beans for a complete comforting meal.

One of my favorite ingredients here is the fresh garlic because it really brings the sauce to life with its fragrant aroma and punch of flavor. A memorable moment with this dish was when I served it for a family gathering, and everyone kept going back for seconds, raving about how tender and flavorful the pork was.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before placing them in airtight containers. Refrigerate up to five days or freeze for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain sauce creaminess.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have heavy cream, use whole milk for a lighter sauce but expect less thickness. Cream cheese can be swapped for an extra half cup of cream but will change the flavor slightly. Parmesan can be replaced with Romano or mozzarella if you prefer a different cheese character. Bone in pork chops or pork tenderloin can be used, adjusting cooking times as needed. Skipping searing is possible in a pinch but yields less depth in flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted baby potatoes and simple steamed green beans are easy and classic sides that complement the creamy sauce well. For a heartier meal, mashed potatoes work beautifully to soak up extra sauce. A crisp green salad or garlic bread adds freshness and texture contrast. To elevate, try Italian green beans tossed with bacon or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

This creamy garlic parmesan pork chops recipe is an easy weeknight winner that tastes special. Give it a try for a comforting, crowd pleasing dinner.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can this dish be prepared without a slow cooker?

Yes, pork chops can be seared on the stovetop and then simmered in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce until cooked through. This method requires close attention to maintain moisture and flavor.

→ How do I prevent the pork chops from drying out?

Using thick cuts and slow cooking them in the creamy sauce helps retain moisture. Searing the chops before cooking also locks in juices and adds rich flavor.

→ What side dishes pair well with this pork?

Classic sides include roasted baby potatoes, steamed or sautéed green beans, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the sauce.

→ Can poultry be used instead of pork?

Chicken breasts or thighs can be prepared alike, but ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety while maintaining their tenderness.

→ How long do cooked pork chops last when stored?

Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will keep well in the fridge for 4 to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.