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Slow Cooker Apple Pork Chop Recipe – A Sweet and Savory Fall Favorite

This slow cooker apple pork chop recipe is the perfect cozy comfort food for busy weeknights or lazy fall weekends.

The tender, juicy pork chops are layered over a bed of granny smith apples and onions, then simmered in a cinnamon-spiced apple juice mixture with just a touch of brown sugar (or sugar substitute). The result? A dish that tastes like a warm, apple pie inspired hug—with none of the hassle.

This easy slow cooker meal is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to throw together. It’s perfect for families looking for a healthy, hearty dinner option.

You’ll love how the pork becomes fork-tender, infused with sweet apple and spice—while your kitchen fills with the most delicious scent of fall.

Why slow cooker pork chops and apples are a must-try fall recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, slow cooker apple pork dish when the weather turns chilly.

This pork chop recipe is bursting with sweet and savory notes—apples, onion, and cinnamon create a satisfying and tasty dish with very little hands-on time.

The magic of slow cooking is how it tenderizes meat over several hours. Your pork chops in the slow cooker will literally fall apart, making them perfect over mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash.

And because this is an easy slow cooker meal, it’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.

What kind of apples work best for easy slow cooker pork chops

When it comes to choosing the right apple, granny smith apples are a top pick. Their tartness balances the natural sweetness of the apple juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon mixture, making every bite flavorful without being too sweet. Honeycrisp is another great option for its firmness and subtle sweetness.

Using firmer varieties ensures that your apples and onions hold their texture during the slow cooking process. Softer apples may turn to mush and lose their flavor. For a fun twist, try a combination of tart and sweet apple types for a more complex flavor.

Should you use bone-in or boneless pork chops for this recipe

You can’t go wrong with either, but there are some differences. Bone-in pork chops often have more flavor and stay tender during the long cook time. On the other hand, boneless pork chops are a bit easier to layer and serve, especially if you're feeding kids.

For this slow cooker apple pork dish, opt for thick-cut chops—about an inch thick. Whether you choose bone-in or boneless, always pat pork chops dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick and keep them from steaming.

How to build flavor in your slow cooker pork chop recipe

Layering is key to developing rich flavor in a crock pot meal. Start by placing sliced apples and onions on the bottom of the slow cooker. This not only infuses the dish with natural sweetness but also keeps the pork chops from sticking.

Then, place pork chops on top—yes, chops on top! Season them well with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. For an extra layer of savory depth, you can even mix a little mustard or dijon into the apple juice mixture before pouring it over the meat.

How long to cook pork chops in the slow cooker

For the best results, cook on low for about six hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the pork chops to become ultra-tender without drying out. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for three to four hours—but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Always use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F. This ensures your pork is safe to eat but still juicy.

Can you add dijon for extra flavor

Absolutely. A spoonful of dijon mustard adds a touch of tang and depth to this otherwise sweet dish. Stir it into the apple juice mixture before pouring it over the pork.

Tips for layering ingredients in the slow cooker

Start by layering the apple and onion mixture on the bottom of the slow cooker. This prevents the meat from sticking and creates a bed of sweet and aromatic flavor.

Then, place pork chops on top and pour your spice mixture—made with apple juice, brown sugar substitute, and cinnamon—over the whole thing.

This layering method ensures the juices soak through everything as it cooks, turning the apples and onions into a delicious, spoonable sauce.

Should you sear pork chops before slow cooking

Searing is optional but can add an extra dimension of flavor. By browning the pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat for a minute or two per side, you caramelize the exterior, locking in juices and enhancing the overall taste.

However, if you're short on time (or just want a true dump-and-go crock-pot® experience), you can skip this step. The recipe is still incredibly tasty thanks to the apple, onion, and spice mixture.

How to thicken the sauce for a richer gravy

Prefer your sauce a little thicker? Once the pork is done, remove the chops from the slow cooker and whisk together a slurry of cornstarch and water. Stir this into the liquid left in the crock and let it cook on high for about five minutes.

This creates a gravy that’s perfect over mashed potatoes or spooned directly over your pork chops and apples. You can even stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or worcestershire sauce for added spice and zing.

Best side dishes to serve with apple pork chops

These slow cooker pork chops are ultra-flavorful and go wonderfully with a variety of sides.

Classic higher protein mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash are perfect for soaking up that apple-onion gravy.

You can also serve with maple roasted brussels sprouts or a crisp fall salad with a light vinaigrette.

This dish also pairs well with a side of apple-pear sauce for extra fruity flavor.