Description
Slow Cooker Apple Cranberry Pork Chops are a delicious combination of tender pork chops, sweet apples, tart cranberries, and a rich, flavorful sauce. This comforting slow cooker recipe brings together sweet and savory flavors in one easy family dinner. The pork chops cook slowly in a delicious mixture of apple juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, garlic, and savory seasonings. As everything simmers, the apples become soft, the cranberries release their natural tartness, and the pork absorbs the wonderful flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy fall dinners, holiday gatherings, or Sunday family meals. With just a few minutes of preparation, your slow cooker does most of the work. Serve these juicy pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying homemade dinner.
Ingredients For the Pork Chops
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4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Apple Cranberry Sauce
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2 medium apples, peeled and diced
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1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
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½ cup unsweetened apple juice
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Thickening the Sauce (Optional)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnishing
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Fresh parsley, finely chopped
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Extra cooked cranberries and apple pieces
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for approximately 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown. This step adds extra flavor, although you can skip it when short on time.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Cranberry Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, cranberries, apple juice, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 3: Arrange Everything in the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray. Place the seasoned pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer whenever possible. Spoon the apple cranberry mixture evenly over the pork chops, ensuring each piece receives plenty of fruit and sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW for approximately 3–5 hours or HIGH for approximately 2–3 hours, depending on the thickness of the pork chops and your slow cooker. Begin checking early because boneless pork chops can become dry when overcooked. The pork is ready when the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Allow the pork to rest for at least 3 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, carefully transfer the cooking liquid to a small saucepan. Mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the simmering sauce and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Pour the thickened sauce back over the pork chops.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully transfer the pork chops onto serving plates. Spoon the tender apples, cranberries, and glossy sauce over each pork chop. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Tips and Notes
Choose thicker pork chops: Pork chops approximately 1 inch thick are less likely to dry out during slow cooking. Use fresh or frozen cranberries: Both work well. Frozen cranberries do not need thawing before cooking. Choose the right apples: Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith apples provide excellent flavor. Firmer varieties hold their shape better during cooking. Adjust the sweetness: Reduce the brown sugar or honey if you prefer a more savory sauce. Avoid overcooking: Pork chops are relatively lean, so use a meat thermometer and check them before the maximum cooking time. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a little sauce to help prevent drying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes. Bone-in pork chops work well in this recipe. Cooking time may vary depending on their thickness, so check the internal temperature before serving.
Can I make this recipe without cranberries?
Yes. You can replace the cranberries with additional diced apples for a sweeter, milder flavor.
What should I serve with apple cranberry pork chops?
Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, steamed green beans, buttered rice, and roasted carrots are all delicious choices.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the sauce and season the pork chops the night before. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine everything in the slow cooker when ready to cook.
Servings and Nutrition
Servings: 4 Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: Approximately 3–5 hours on LOW Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving
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Calories: 390 kcal
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Protein: 34 g
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Carbohydrates: 38 g
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Fat: 11 g
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Fiber: 3 g
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Sugar: 29 g
Nutrition values are approximate and depend on the size of the pork chops, ingredients used, and amount of sauce served.
Slow Cooker Apple Cranberry Pork Chops are a wonderful choice when you want an easy, comforting dinner with beautiful sweet and savory flavors. The juicy pork, tender cinnamon apples, tangy cranberries, and rich sauce make every bite delicious.
