This dish combines tender pork chops with perfectly cooked potatoes, all enveloped in a creamy, tangy Dijon mustard sauce. The addition of whole grain mustard brings a subtle crunch, while the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth create a rich, comforting base.
It’s an ideal recipe for busy days or when you crave a no-fuss, hearty meal. The pork chops are browned to lock in flavor, and when paired with soft, flavorful potatoes, they make a meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Slow Cooker Dijon Pork Chops & Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup whole grain Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 6 medium red potatoes sliced
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 6 boneless pork loin chops
- 1 tbsp oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sliced potatoes and onions.
- Assemble the Ingredients: Place the potato mixture in a 5-7 quart slow cooker.
- Brown the Pork Chops: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chops on both sides until golden brown. Arrange them on top of the potatoes.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 3-5 hours.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If desired, mix the flour and water until smooth. Remove the pork chops, stir the mixture into the slow cooker, and return the pork chops. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Slow Cooker Dijon Pork Chops & Potatoes is the ultimate comfort dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Here’s why this dish will become a favorite in your meal rotation:
1. Convenience and Ease
One of the biggest advantages of this dish is the simplicity of preparation. Using a slow cooker means you can assemble the ingredients in the morning and let it simmer all day without constant monitoring. The “set it and forget it” nature of slow cooking is perfect for busy families, working professionals, or anyone who wants a stress-free meal without sacrificing flavor.
2. Tender, Juicy Pork Chops
The slow cooker is a game-changer for pork chops, which can be notoriously tricky to cook properly. Overcooking them on the stove or in the oven often results in dry, tough meat.
However, slow cooking allows the pork chops to soak up the rich, savory broth, resulting in fork-tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. Every bite is infused with the tangy Dijon mustard and aromatic spices, making each mouthful a flavor explosion.
3. Flavorful Potatoes
Potatoes act as the perfect companion to the pork chops. They absorb the cooking juices and take on the flavors of the broth and Dijon mustard.
The slow cooker’s gentle heat ensures that the potatoes cook evenly, becoming creamy and tender without falling apart. Their starchy texture balances the meat’s richness, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
4. Rich, Tangy Sauce
The sauce is a highlight of this dish, combining Dijon mustard, broth, and aromatics to create a bold, savory base. Dijon mustard is the star ingredient, offering a tangy, slightly sharp flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the pork.
Add a touch of honey for balance, and you have a sweet-savory blend that will make you want to mop up every last drop with a crusty piece of bread.
5. Nutritional Benefits
This dish can easily be adapted for a healthier meal without compromising flavor. Lean pork chops provide protein, while potatoes offer fiber and essential vitamins like potassium and vitamin C. You can also add vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans for a boost of nutrients and color.
6. Customization and Versatility
One of the best things about Slow Cooker Dijon Pork Chops & Potatoes is its versatility. Want more spice? Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Prefer creaminess? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream toward the end. The dish can also accommodate dietary preferences, such as gluten-free options or lower-sodium choices.
7. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal
Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or preparing meals for the week, this dish is sure to impress. The rich aroma wafting through the house as it cooks creates anticipation, and the final result is a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Overall, Slow Cooker Dijon Pork Chops & Potatoes is a winning combination of ease, flavor, and satisfaction. It’s a dish you’ll love returning to time and time again.
Here’s a detailed guide to preparing Slow Cooker Dijon Pork Chops & Potatoes, with tips and tricks to enhance flavor, texture, and presentation, while optimizing servings.
Ingredients and Prep Tips
- Pork Chops: Use bone-in for more flavor, or boneless for easier serving. Trim excess fat for a less greasy dish. Sear the pork chops in a skillet before slow-cooking to lock in moisture and add depth of flavor.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or baby potatoes hold their shape and have a creamy texture. For a rustic feel, leave the skins on. Chop them into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Dijon Mustard: Choose a high-quality, stone-ground Dijon for bold, tangy flavor. You can mix in a bit of honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Aromatics: Add garlic, onions, or shallots for extra complexity. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves add an earthy, herbal note.
- Broth or Sauce: Use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control saltiness. Stir in a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar for brightness.
Cooking and Flavor Tips
- Layering: Place potatoes on the bottom of the slow cooker to help them absorb juices. Lay the seared pork chops on top for even heat distribution.
- Cooking Time: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Avoid overcooking pork chops, as they can become dry. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer (145°F for pork).
- Thickening the Sauce: To make the sauce creamier, remove the pork and potatoes at the end of cooking and whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch to 2 tbsp cold water) or a dollop of sour cream.
- Final Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or Dijon levels as needed.
Serving Tricks
- Garnishing: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives to add color and freshness. A lemon wedge on the side brings a bright, acidic note to balance the richness.
- Plating: Serve the pork chop atop a bed of potatoes with a drizzle of Dijon sauce. Use a wide plate to make the dish look more elegant.
- Sides: Pair with sautéed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple arugula salad to complement the flavors and add texture variety.
Storage and Leftovers
- Make-Ahead: This dish is great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Heat gently in a covered skillet or microwave to prevent drying out. Add a little extra sauce or broth if necessary.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as instructed.
Choose the Right Cut: Opt for bone-in pork chops (rib or loin chops) as they retain moisture better than boneless cuts. Aim for chops at least 1-inch thick to prevent them from drying out.
Brine or Marinate: Soak the pork chops in a saltwater brine (1/4 cup salt per 4 cups water) or a flavorful marinade for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. This enhances tenderness and adds flavor.
Bring to Room Temperature: Allow pork chops to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
Use High Heat for Searing: Sear pork chops in a hot skillet with oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust.
Finish Cooking Gently: After searing, finish cooking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or reduce skillet heat and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
With these tips, Slow Cooker Dijon Pork Chops & Potatoes can become a family favorite or a go-to dinner party dish. The right preparation and serving methods ensure every bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction!
