Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Apple Butter Pork Chops
Looking for an easy dinner with cozy fall flavors? These Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Apple Butter Pork Chops combine tender pork with the sweet, spiced flavor of apple butter for a comforting meal that feels like autumn on a plate.
As the pork chops slowly cook, the apple butter creates a rich, glossy sauce that coats the meat with a delicious balance of sweetness and savory flavor. With only three simple ingredients and very little preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or chilly fall evenings.
Serve these pork chops with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a simple homemade meal your family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 3 ingredients: Simple ingredients make dinner easy.
- Sweet and savory: Apple butter adds a rich apple flavor with warm spices.
- Minimal preparation: Your slow cooker handles most of the work.
- Perfect for fall: A cozy seasonal recipe for family dinners.
- Easy to customize: Pair it with your favorite sides or add a little extra seasoning.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops, about ¾–1 inch thick
- 1 cup apple butter
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pork Chops
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer in the bottom of your slow cooker whenever possible.
Thicker pork chops work especially well because they are less likely to dry out during cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Apple Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together the apple butter and Dijon mustard until smooth.
The apple butter provides natural sweetness and warm spice, while the mustard adds a tangy flavor that balances the sauce.
Step 3: Coat the Pork
Spread the apple butter mixture evenly over the pork chops, coating both sides as much as possible.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest.
- LOW: Approximately 3–4 hours
- HIGH: Approximately 1½–2½ hours
Cooking time varies according to the thickness of the pork chops and your slow cooker. Check the temperature early to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Carefully transfer the pork chops to serving plates and let them rest for 3 minutes after reaching the recommended temperature.
Spoon the warm apple butter sauce over the top and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Apple Butter Pork Chops
- Choose thicker chops: Chops around ¾–1 inch thick are a good option for slow cooking.
- Don’t overcook: Pork chops are relatively lean and can become dry if cooked too long.
- Use good-quality apple butter: A flavorful apple butter makes a noticeable difference in the finished sauce.
- Keep the lid closed: Opening the slow cooker frequently can increase cooking time.
- Check the temperature: Use a food thermometer to make sure the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
What to Serve With Apple Butter Pork Chops
These sweet and savory pork chops pair beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Buttered green beans
- Steamed broccoli
- Wild rice
- Roasted carrots
- Brussels sprouts
- Warm dinner rolls
For a cozy autumn dinner, serve the pork chops with mashed sweet potatoes and roasted carrots.
Easy Recipe Variations
Add Garlic: Add a little minced garlic to the apple butter mixture for a more savory flavor.
Make It Sweeter: Choose a sweeter apple butter or add a small drizzle of honey.
Add Warm Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger can complement the apple flavor.
Use Bone-In Pork Chops: Bone-in chops also work, but cooking time may vary depending on their size and thickness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is apple butter?
Apple butter is a thick, concentrated apple spread made by slowly cooking apples with sugar and spices. Despite its name, it usually contains no dairy butter.
Can I use applesauce instead of apple butter?
You can, but applesauce is thinner and generally less concentrated. The sauce will have a different texture and flavor, so apple butter is recommended for the best result.
Can I use frozen pork chops?
Thaw the pork chops completely in the refrigerator before placing them in the slow cooker. Do not start this recipe with frozen pork.
Why are my pork chops dry?
The most common reason is overcooking. Check the internal temperature early and remove the pork once it reaches 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Mix the apple butter and Dijon mustard ahead of time and refrigerate the sauce in a covered container. Keep the raw pork refrigerated separately until you’re ready to cook.
How do I store leftovers?
Place the cooled pork chops and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3–4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze apple butter pork chops?
Yes. Freeze the cooked pork chops with some sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
These Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Apple Butter Pork Chops are an easy way to bring warm autumn flavors to your dinner table. The sweet apple butter and tangy Dijon mustard create a delicious sauce that complements tender pork without requiring a long list of ingredients.
Serve them with your favorite vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a cozy, satisfying meal. Simple, comforting, and full of fall flavor, this recipe deserves a place in your slow cooker collection!