Putting frozen pork chops in the crock pot can make weeknight meals a breeze. However, this convenient cooking method does come with some safety considerations. In the opening paragraphs, we’ll provide quick answers to common questions about cooking frozen pork in the slow cooker.
Can you put frozen pork chops in a crock pot?
Yes, you can put frozen pork chops in a crock pot. The low, slow cooking environment of the crock pot will safely thaw and cook frozen pork chops without overcooking the exterior before the inside thaws.
Is it safe to cook frozen meat in a crock pot?
Cooking frozen pork in the crock pot is generally safe, as long as you take some precautions. The main risk when cooking frozen meat in the crock pot is bacteria growth. Frozen meat thaws slowly in the crock pot, which means it lingers in the “danger zone” temperature range of 40-140°F. This range allows bacteria to multiply quickly.
To prevent bacteria overgrowth, only cook frozen pork chops in the crock pot if they will reach 140°F and maintain that temperature for at least 30 minutes before the full 8-10 hour cook time elapses. Be especially careful with large, thick frozen pork chops, as these will take longer to thaw and come up to temperature.
How long does it take to cook frozen pork chops in a crock pot?
Cooking time for frozen pork chops in the crock pot depends on a few factors:
- Thickness of the chops – Thicker chops take longer
- Number of chops – More chops add more cook time
- Crock pot size – Larger pots heat more slowly
- Liquid in the recipe – Liquid conducts heat faster than air
In general, expect frozen pork chops to take 8-10 hours on low in a crock pot. Quick-thawing the chops before cooking reduces time to 6-8 hours. Cut cooking time down to 4-6 hours on high. Check for doneness with a food thermometer.
How do you quick thaw pork chops before the crock pot?
Here are three quick methods for thawing pork chops before cooking them in the slow cooker:
- Cold water thaw: Submerge chops in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes until thawed. Takes 2-3 hours for 1-inch thick chops.
- Microwave thaw: Place chops on a microwave-safe plate, separate if stacked. Microwave at 30% power, flipping halfway. Takes about 5 minutes per chop.
- Refrigerator thaw: Place chops in a single layer on a plate to thaw overnight in the fridge. Safest method but requires planning ahead.
Chops thawed quickly in cold water or the microwave will likely need to cook for the full time range, as they may not fully reach refrigerator temperature internally.
Safety Tips for Thawing Pork
- Always thaw in the refrigerator if possible, allowing 1 day for every 5 pounds.
- Cook thawed pork within 2 days.
- Avoid thawing at room temperature longer than 2 hours.
- Cook immediately after microwave thawing.
- Change cold water every 30 minutes during cold water thawing.
Should pork chops be thawed before crock pot?
For food safety, it is best to thaw pork chops before cooking in the crock pot. Thawed meat reaches safe internal temperatures faster than frozen. Slow-thawed frozen pork could linger too long in the “danger zone” and allow bacteria growth.
However, you can cook frozen pork in the crock pot if needed in a pinch. Take these precautions:
- Use chops 1 inch or less in thickness.
- Add at least 1 cup liquid to the recipe.
- Cook on low 8-10 hours, or high for 4-6 hours.
- Do not cook frozen pork less than 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
- Check temperature with a food thermometer before serving.
What temperature should pork chops be in a crock pot?
Pork needs to reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F as measured with a food thermometer. At this temperature, any harmful bacteria are destroyed. Using a food thermometer is the only way to ensure safety when cooking pork.
When cooking pork chops in the crock pot, expect the temperature to peak at around 160-165°F after the long cook time. The pork will be tender and moist as long as it doesn’t overcook. Pull pork from the crock pot as soon as it hits 145°F to prevent overcooking.
Can you overcook pork chops in a crock pot?
It is possible to overcook pork chops in the slow cooker. Lower, slower heat makes it more forgiving than other cooking methods. However, the extended cook time in the crock pot can eventually cause pork chops to dry out if left cooking too long after reaching safe internal temperatures.
Signs of overcooked pork include:
- Internal temperature over 160°F
- Dry, stringy texture
- White fat instead of translucent or slightly pink
- Chops pulling away from the bone
Check chops with a food thermometer starting at the low end of cook times to prevent overcooking. Cook just until a thermometer shows 145°F, then remove from the crock pot.
Should pork chops be covered in the crock pot?
Covering pork chops as they cook in the crock pot helps retain moisture and prevents the meat from drying out. Some scenarios where you may leave the lid off include:
- Browning chops – Remove lid during first hour of cooking to evaporate liquid.
- Thickening sauce – Leave lid off at the end to reduce liquid to desired thickness.
- Cooking on high – Cook uncovered if boiling over becomes an issue.
When cooking on low, keep the lid on for the majority of the cook time for juicy, tender chops cooked through without drying out.
Do you add liquid for pork chops in the crock pot?
Adding some liquid when cooking pork chops in the slow cooker helps:
- Conduct heat from the pot to the meat.
- Create steam to help tenderize meat.
- Prevent burning on the bottom as chops thaw.
- Give you sauce or gravy from the cooking juices.
The liquid could include broth, water, juice, soda, beer, etc. For boneless chops, add 1/2 cup liquid per chop. Use 1 cup liquid per bone-in chop. Too much liquid can make the chops bland.
Sample liquids to use in crock pot pork chops:
| Liquid | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken or pork broth | 1/2 to 1 cup per chop |
| Apple juice or cider | 1/2 to 3/4 cup per chop |
| Beer or wine | 1/4 cup per chop |
| Soda | 1/4 cup per chop |
| Water | 1/4 to 1/2 cup per chop |
Should you brown pork chops before crock pot?
Browning pork chops before cooking them in the crock pot is optional, but has some benefits:
- Adds deeper flavor from the browned crust
- Prevents pale, unappetizing chops
- Locks in juices
- Provides texture contrast
- Reduces cooking time slightly
To brown, heat oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Add chops and cook 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer immediately to the crock pot.
If you don’t want to dirty extra pans, you can skip browning. The long cook time infuses flavor into the chops.
What spices go well with pork chops in the crock pot?
Pork chops pair well with a variety of spice blends in the slow cooker. Consider these aromatic spice combinations:
- Bbq rub – Paprika, chili powder, brown sugar, garlic, pepper
- Cajun seasoning – Paprika, garlic, onion, cayenne, oregano
- Jamaican jerk – Allspice, thyme, garlic, onion, cayenne
- Garam masala – Cinnamon, cumin, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg
- Italian seasoning – Oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme
Apply 1-2 teaspoons of dry rub per side before cooking. Combine spices with a bit of oil to make a paste for better adherence.
Basic Dry Rub for Pork
Adjust amounts to make more or less:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Should you add vegetables when cooking pork chops in a crock pot?
Adding vegetables to pork chops in the slow cooker is recommended for enhanced flavor and nutrition. The vegetables add valuable vitamins, minerals and plant compounds. Meanwhile, the pork infuses savory, satisfying flavor into the vegetables.
Almost any vegetable pairs well with pork. Try these delicious options:
- Potatoes – Russet, sweet, red
- Onions – Red, yellow, white
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
- Kale
- Spinach
- Green beans
- Squash – Zucchini, yellow, butternut
Cut vegetables into 1-2 inch chunks before adding to the crock pot. Place veggies on bottom to act as a trivet for the chops. Add tender greens like spinach/kale at the end.
Timing for Common Crock Pot Vegetables
| Vegetable | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Root veggies (carrots, potatoes, etc) | Full cook time |
| Firm veggies (onions, celery, garlic) | 6-8 hours on low |
| Tender veggies (spinach, zucchini, beans) | Last 30-60 minutes |
What are good pork chop crock pot recipes?
Here are 5 highly rated recipes for delicious pork chops in the slow cooker:
1. Creamy Pork Chops and Potatoes
Boneless chops cooked with potatoes in a creamy soup and vegetable sauce.
2. Apple Cider Pork Chops
Bone-in or boneless chops infused with the flavors of apple cider, onions, and garlic.
3. Hawaiian Pork Chops
Boneless chops smothered in a sweet and tangy Hawaiian-inspired barbeque sauce.
4. Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy
Tender bone-in chops served with an earthy, rich mushroom gravy.
5. Ranch Pork Chops
Crispy ranch-flavored boneless chops topped with bacon and melty cheese.
The keys are flavorful ingredients like juices, wines, fruits, herbs and spices. Cook with plenty of aromatics like onion and garlic. Add vegetables for one-pot meals.
Can you cook pork chops from frozen in an instant pot?
Yes, you can safely cook frozen pork chops in an instant pot or other electric pressure cooker. The hotter temperature and pressure environment reduce thaw and cook time compared to the slow cooker. Here are tips for instant pot frozen pork chops:
- Cook chops 1 inch or less in thickness
- Add 1 cup liquid to pot
- Stack chops evenly in pot
- Cook manually at high pressure for 8-10 minutes
- Quick or natural pressure release
- Check internal temperature before serving
The quick cook time makes this method convenient for weeknights. Take care not to overcook the pork, as the high heat makes it easy to go past tender into dried out texture.
Conclusion
Cooking frozen pork chops in the crock pot or instant pot opens up possibilities for easy, flavorful meals. While generally safe, proper precautions are needed to prevent bacterial growth on the slow-thawing meat. Thaw chops in the refrigerator whenever possible, or use quick-thaw methods. Include ample liquid in the crock pot and always verify safe internal temperatures.
Season chops boldly and add vegetables or starches like potatoes. Delicious liquids like broth, wine, juice or soda infuse flavor. With the right recipe, frozen pork chops cook up conveniently in the crock pot for satisfying dinners the whole family will love.