Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops

Introduction: What happens when sweet peaches meet savory pork in a slow cooker?

If you’ve never tried fruit with meat, this dish will change your mind. Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops blend the tender richness of pork with the juicy sweetness of peaches and a savory tomato-herb sauce. It’s an easy meal that feels fancy—but takes just minutes to prepare. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a deliciously different dinner.

Overview: What Makes These Pork Chops Special

This is not your average pork chop recipe. The slow cooking process turns two simple chops into a fork-tender, flavor-packed main dish with a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours on LOW
• Skill Level: Easy
• Best For: Weeknight dinners, small households, fruity meat lovers

The result is a beautifully tender chop with a light, flavorful sauce that’s both surprising and satisfying.

Essential Ingredients and Why They Matter

• Pork Loin Chops (2, bone-in, 7 oz each): Juicy and flavorful, these cook perfectly in a slow cooker.
• Canola Oil (2 tsp): Used to sear the chops and lock in juices.
• Sliced Peaches (8.25 oz can, extra-light syrup): Adds sweetness and moisture. Sub: fresh peach slices with a touch of honey.
• Tomato Sauce (8 oz can): Balances sweetness with acidity.
• Water (½ cup): Helps thin the sauce so it can simmer properly.
• Soy Sauce (1 tsp, reduced-sodium): Adds umami depth and contrast.
• Dried Rosemary (⅛ tsp): Earthy and aromatic.
• Dried Thyme (⅛ tsp): Adds a slightly minty herbal note.
• Dried Basil (⅛ tsp): Provides a gentle sweetness.
• Cayenne Pepper (Dash to ⅛ tsp): Optional, adds a mild kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Pork Chops:
   • Heat canola oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear pork chops on both sides until golden brown.
   • Drain and transfer to a 1½-quart slow cooker.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Drain peaches, reserving the syrup.
   • In a bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, water, soy sauce, rosemary, thyme, basil, cayenne, and the reserved peach juice.
3. Assemble the Dish:
   • Pour the sauce over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
   • Place drained peach slices on top.
4. Slow Cook:
   • Cover and cook on LOW for about 5 hours, or until the pork is tender.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

• Serve pork chops with spoonfuls of the peach-tomato sauce on top.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh thyme.
• Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or couscous to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions with sauce for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Brown the pork and mix the sauce ahead of time. Store separately and combine in the slow cooker when ready.

Recipe Variations

• Use Chicken: Try boneless chicken thighs for a similar dish.
• Add Veggies: Toss in sliced onions or bell peppers before cooking.
• Go Fresh: Use fresh peaches in summer and adjust sweetness with honey.
• Make it Spicy: Add more cayenne or sliced jalapeño.

Conclusion: A Sweet and Savory Surprise

Slow-Cooked Peach Pork Chops are the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create a dish that’s both comforting and unique. Sweet peaches and savory pork pair better than you might think. This meal is a slow cooker gem you’ll want to come back to again and again.

Print

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, but they may cook faster. Check for doneness after 4 hours.

2. Are canned peaches better than fresh? Canned peaches are consistent and convenient. Fresh peaches work well if they’re ripe.

3. Can I cook this on HIGH? Yes, cook for 2.5–3 hours on HIGH.

4. What if I don’t have tomato sauce? Use crushed tomatoes or a mix of ketchup and water.

5. Can I add more spices? Of course! Try garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder.

6. Does it taste sweet? It’s a balanced sweet-and-savory flavor—not a dessert, but gently fruity.

7. What goes well on the side? Mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, couscous, or a fresh salad.

8. Can I double the recipe? Yes, as long as your slow cooker is big enough.

9. Can I thicken the sauce? Yes, mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with water and stir in at the end.

10. Is this recipe kid-friendly? Yes! It’s mild, slightly sweet, and tender enough for little ones to enjoy.