When it comes to comfort food that warms the soul and fills the home with mouthwatering aromas, few dishes can compete with Slow Cooker Creole Style Smothered Pork Chops. This Southern-inspired dish combines the bold, zesty flavors of Creole cuisine with the ease and tenderness that only a slow cooker can provide. Perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back Sunday supper, this recipe brings together spices, hearty vegetables, and succulent pork chops for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 to 6 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for browning)
For the Creole Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Hot sauce to taste (optional)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice, mashed potatoes, or creamy grits
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Season and Sear the Pork Chops:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the pork chops.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. (They don’t need to be fully cooked—just browned.)
2. Prepare the Creole Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions, bell peppers, and celery for about 5 minutes, or until slightly softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, Creole seasoning, thyme, bay leaf, and hot sauce if using. Stir well to combine.
3. Slow Cook the Pork Chops:
- Layer half of the sautéed vegetables and sauce in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the seared pork chops on top.
- Pour the remaining sauce and vegetables over the pork chops.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the pork chops are fork-tender and infused with flavor.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Spoon the rich, smothered sauce over the pork chops.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or grits to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips for Success
- Browning the pork chops before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and helps seal in juices.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference by modifying the amount of cayenne and hot sauce.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).
Variations
- Smoked Sausage Addition: Add sliced andouille or smoked sausage for extra richness and protein.
- Mushroom Twist: Include sliced mushrooms for a savory, earthy note.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a luscious, creamy sauce.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Creole Style Smothered Pork Chops are a true celebration of Southern flavor and simplicity. With its bold spices, tender meat, and aromatic sauce, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. The ease of slow cooking makes it a practical option for anyone seeking a wholesome, hearty meal with minimal effort and maximum reward.