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This Crock Pot Parmesan Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe brings together tender pork chops and creamy garlic parmesan sauce cooked low and slow for a perfect comforting meal. It’s designed to be effortless yet packed with flavor, making busy weeknights feel special without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory seasoning, buttery potatoes, and rich sauce keeps everyone at the table happy and satisfied.
I first tried this recipe when juggling work and family dinners, and it instantly became a go-to because I could set it and forget it. Now I often double the batch to have leftovers that taste just as good the next day.
Ingredients
- Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika: these create a well-rounded seasoning blend for the pork chops, with a hint of smoky warmth from the paprika. Use fresh spices for the best aroma.
- Boneless pork chops about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick: thick chops hold up well during slow cooking and stay juicy bonein can work too for added flavor.
- Butter or oil: helps brown the pork chops, locking in moisture and enhancing the taste. Use unsalted butter if you want to control the salt level.
- Baby gold potatoes cut in half: these potatoes hold their shape well and become tender without falling apart. Yukon gold or baby reds are great alternatives.
- Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce: this jarred sauce makes the recipe quick and hasslefree, imparting garlicky, cheesy richness. If you prefer homemade sauce, see notes on how to make your own.
- Heavy cream: adds extra creaminess and body to the sauce. Half and half or evaporated milk can substitute if needed.
- Grated parmesan cheese: brings that nutty, salty parmesan punch that defines the sauce. Freshly grated is always best for melting smoothly.
- Optional chopped parsley: adds a fresh, vibrant finish when sprinkled on top before serving.
Instructions
- Savour the seasoning:
- Combine garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a small bowl. Use this mix to season both sides of the pork chops evenly. This step builds a flavor foundation that complements the creamy sauce later.
- Brown the chops:
- Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and melt the butter or warm the oil. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops one or two at a time to avoid crowding. Brown each side for just a few minutes until golden but not cooked through. Browning seals in juices and adds color and depth. Remove chops and set aside. If you have many chops, add a bit more butter or oil to the pan as needed.
- Prep the slow cooker:
- Arrange the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the browned pork chops gently on top of the potatoes so they cook evenly.
- Mix the sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the Parmesan Garlic Sauce, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir well until blended. This creamy sauce will infuse the pork and potatoes as they cook slowly.
- Slow cook everything:
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops and potatoes in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for about 4 hours. The pork chops will turn tender and the potatoes soft but still holding their shape.
- Serve with a flourish:
- Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness and color. Spoon some of the luscious sauce from the slow cooker onto the pork chops when plating.
My favorite part of this dish is definitely the garlic parmesan sauce. The way it clings to the pork and pools around the potatoes is so comforting. It reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table sharing stories and seconds. It’s a meal that brings folks close and warms the soul.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. The sauce can separate a bit when stored just stir it back together. You can freeze portions for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have Buffalo Wild Wings sauce, substitute jarred garlic alfredo sauce mixed with a bit more grated parmesan and extra garlic powder for a homemade feel. For a dairyfree twist, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast to mimic the creaminess and cheesiness. Swap baby potatoes for sweet potatoes or Yukon golds depending on your preference. Pork chops can be replaced with bonein chicken thighs or breasts for a different protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed green vegetables for freshness and crunch, such as broccoli or green beans. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls scoop up the sauce beautifully. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and balances the meal. Leftover sauce is delicious tossed with pasta or rice.
This comforting Crock Pot meal is easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights. Leftovers reheat well and freeze beautifully for quick meals later.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I skip browning the pork chops?
Yes, browning is optional but recommended as it adds color, locks in moisture, and boosts flavor.
- → What sides pair well with garlic parmesan pork chops?
Consider serving with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, steamed broccoli, or rice to complement the creamy sauce.
- → How do I know when pork chops are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 145°F. Slow cooking helps keep them tender and juicy.
- → Why does the sauce sometimes separate?
Sauce separation is normal during slow cooking. Simply stir to recombine before serving.
- → What can I add to customize the dish?
Try adding mozzarella, provolone, spinach, mushrooms, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor and texture.
- → How long can leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.