Looking for a hearty, no-fuss meal that brings together sweet and savory flavors? These Savory Apple Dijon Crock Pot Pork Chops are just the ticket. Perfect for a cozy dinner, they’ll fill your home with a mouthwatering aroma and your belly with satisfying goodness.
Pork chops are the star of the show, bringing a hearty and juicy element to the dish. The olive oil helps in browning them, adding depth of flavor. A sprinkle of salt and black pepper enhances and balances the overall taste.
The onion and garlic provide a savory base note, while unsweetened apple juice introduces a natural sweetness that makes the dish pop. Dijon mustard adds a nice tang and a bit of heat.
Apple cider vinegar gives a subtle zing, offsetting the sweetness, and soy sauce adds a touch of umami. A hint of brown sugar rounds out the sauce, while dried thyme, cinnamon, and nutmeg introduce warm, aromatic spices.
These pork chops are delightful served over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice, which soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully. A side of roasted green beans or a fresh garden salad complements the meal nicely, adding some crunch and color.
Start by seasoning your pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step is important for locking in flavor. Once browned, transfer them to your crock pot.
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent. This will soak up all the delicious pork bits left in the pan. Once done, add them to the crock pot on top of the pork chops.
Now, it’s time to make the sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the apple juice, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, thyme, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour this mixture over the pork chops and onions in the crock pot, making sure everything is well-covered. Set your crock pot to low and let it cook for 6-7 hours until the pork chops are tender and flavorful.