Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Apples

A Leeper farmstead classic -

When I began dating my husband, many Sunday suppers were spent around the table with breaded pork chops or pork chops with apples. To this day, his mom’s breaded chops are still my favorite — no matter how hard I try, I just can’t make them quite like she does.

But, pork chops with apples? There’s just something about that combination that makes your taste buds dance. These pork chop meals take me back to those years… before kids, before marriage, before the loss of grandparents- when life was simpler (and I didn’t have to do the cooking!) Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Apples is one of those recipes that feels like it belongs to slower days, soft sweaters, and dinners shared around the table when everyone finally pauses.

Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Apples

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick

• 2 medium apples peeled, cored, and sliced

• 1 small onion thinly sliced

• ¾ cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water optional, for thickening

Instructions

• Sear the pork chops (optional but recommended):

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops lightly with salt and pepper, then sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to the slow cooker.

• Layer the fruit and onion:

• Place sliced apples and onions on top of the pork chops in the slow cooker.

• Prepare the sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and thyme. Pour evenly over everything.

• Slow cook:

• Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until pork is tender and fully cooked.

• Optional thickening:

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops once cooked. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the liquid, cover, and cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened.

• Serve:

• Spoon apples and sauce over the pork chops and serve warm.

Variations

Maple Pork Chops with ApplesReplace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for deeper sweetness.

Savory Herb Pork ChopsAdd thyme and rosemary for a more herb-forward flavor.

Low Carb Pork Chops with ApplesReduce apples slightly and skip brown sugar.

Spicy Apple Pork ChopsAdd red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Creamy Apple Pork ChopsStir in a splash of cream before serving.

Apple Cranberry Pork ChopsAdd dried cranberries for tart contrast.

Ingredient Notes & Details

Pork chopsBone-in pork chops stay juicier, but boneless works too.Choose chops about 1-inch thick for best results.

ApplesFirm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best.They hold their shape while becoming tender.

OnionYellow or sweet onions add depth and balance.Slice thinly for even cooking.

GarlicFresh garlic adds warmth and aroma.Adjust based on taste preference.

Chicken brothKeeps the pork moist and flavorful.Low-sodium broth gives better seasoning control.

Brown sugarEnhances the apples’ natural sweetness.You can reduce or omit if preferred.

CinnamonAdds subtle warmth without overpowering.A little goes a long way.

PaprikaBalances sweetness with mild smokiness.Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor.

Salt and black pepperSeason generously for balanced flavor.Taste before serving and adjust if needed.

FAQ

Can I use boneless pork chops in the slow cooker?Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.

What apples are best for Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Apples?Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?Absolutely. It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

How do I keep pork chops from drying out?Cook on LOW and avoid overcooking. Thickness matters.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?Yes, carrots or sweet potatoes work well.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?Yes, freeze cooked pork and apples together for best results.