Imagine walking into your home after a long day, greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of tender pork chops and sweet butternut squash slowly simmering to perfection. This Autumn Pork Chops with Squash recipe is your ultimate cold-weather comfort meal that promises to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this crockpot marvel will have your family begging for seconds and your taste buds dancing with delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and dried thyme on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- While the pork chops are searing, prepare the crockpot. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the bottom of the crockpot. This will create a flavorful base for the dish.
- Once the pork chops are browned, place them on top of the onions and garlic in the crockpot.
- Next, add the cubed butternut squash around the pork chops in the crockpot. This will allow the squash to absorb the flavors of the meat and spices as they cook.
- Pour the chicken broth over the pork chops and squash. The broth will help keep the pork moist and infuse the dish with additional flavor.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will tenderize the pork chops and allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- After 6 hours, check the pork chops for doneness. They should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork. If needed, you can cook them for an additional hour.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops and squash from the crockpot. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your Autumn Pork Chops with Squash!
Tips
- For the most flavorful results, always sear your pork chops before placing them in the crockpot. This extra step creates a beautiful golden crust and locks in delicious, rich flavors.
- Choose butternut squash that is firm and heavy for its size to ensure the best texture and sweetness in your dish.
- Don't rush the cooking process! The low and slow method is crucial for achieving melt-in-your-mouth tender pork chops.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the cooking liquid during the last hour of cooking.
- For added depth of flavor, consider sprinkling some fresh thyme or rosemary on top just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making this a great meal prep option for busy families.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
