Directions
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the slow cooker insert if recommended by the manufacturer.
Read your appliance’s instructions before using foil. If you use individual foil packets, arrange them so they do not block the heating surfaces or prevent the lid from closing correctly.
2. Season the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture over both sides of each chop.
3. Add the Garlic Butter
Mix the minced garlic with the softened butter.
Place each pork chop on a separate piece of foil and divide the garlic butter evenly among them. Add a small splash of chicken broth to each packet, then seal the foil loosely but securely.
Cooking tip: Avoid adding excessive liquid; the pork will release additional juices as it cooks.
4. Arrange in the Slow Cooker
Place the packets in the slow cooker in a single layer when possible. If stacking is necessary, follow your appliance’s guidance and avoid tightly packing the cooker.
Alternatively, place the seasoned pork directly in the slow cooker and distribute the garlic butter and broth over the chops.
5. Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 3–4 hours or HIGH for approximately 1½–2½ hours, checking earlier for thinner chops.
Cooking time varies by appliance, thickness, and whether the chops are bone-in or boneless.
Food safety cue: Check the center of each chop with a meat thermometer. Whole-cut pork should reach at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. If the chops are not yet at a safe temperature, continue cooking and recheck.
6. Check the Texture
Carefully open one packet away from your face because hot steam can escape.
The pork should be cooked through and moist, with clear cooking juices. Do not rely on appearance alone to determine safe doneness.
7. Finish and Serve
Transfer the pork chops to serving plates. Stir the cooking juices gently and spoon them over the meat.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and add a little lemon juice if desired.
Serve with roasted broccoli, green beans, cauliflower mash, or your favorite side dish.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Estimated for one 6 oz boneless pork chop with a share of the butter and seasoning. Actual values depend on the cut of pork and how much butter and cooking juice is consumed.
- Calories: 350
- Fats: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Potassium: 550 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Net Carbs: 2 g
- Sugars: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Calcium: 25 mg
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume within 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Add a little broth or reserved cooking juice to help keep the pork moist.
- Allergy notes: Check broth and seasoning labels if you have food allergies; the recipe contains dairy from butter.
- Dairy-free option: Replace butter with olive oil or a suitable dairy-free alternative.
- Flavor boosts: Add fresh rosemary, smoked paprika, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes.
- For a golden crust: Slow cooking will not produce the same browned surface as pan-searing. If desired, briefly sear the chops in a hot skillet before wrapping them, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
- Foil safety: Do not allow foil to contact exposed heating elements, and follow your slow cooker’s instructions for foil use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I cook these garlic butter pork chops without foil?
Yes, place the seasoned chops directly in the slow cooker with the garlic butter and a little broth.
2. How do I keep slow cooker pork chops from drying out?
Choose chops of even thickness, check them early with a thermometer, and avoid cooking them longer than necessary.
3. Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, bone-in chops work well, but their thickness and shape can change the cooking time.
4. Are garlic butter pork chops keto-friendly?
Yes, the basic recipe is very low in carbohydrates when served without sugary sauces or high-carb sides.
5. Can I prepare the pork chops ahead of time?
Yes, season the chops and prepare the garlic butter in advance, then refrigerate separately until ready to cook.
6. What sides go best with garlic butter pork chops?
Steamed broccoli, green beans, cauliflower mash, roasted vegetables, and a fresh salad all complement the buttery garlic flavor.
