Slow cooker 4-ingredient butterscotch pork chops are the kind of retro comfort-food dinner that surprises people at first bite. The combination sounds unusual, but as the pork cooks low and slow, the sweet butterscotch melts into a silky, caramel-like sauce that mingles with the savory juices from the chops for an unexpectedly rich finish. It is an easy recipe built from pantry staples, and it has the unmistakable church-supper, Sunday-dinner charm of Midwestern home cooking.
Serve these pork chops with something that can soak up every bit of the sauce, such as mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy white rice. For balance, add a simple green vegetable like steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Warm dinner rolls and applesauce also fit right in if you want to lean into the classic family-dinner feel.
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Butterscotch Pork Chops
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 thick bone-in pork chops
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant butterscotch pudding mix
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed French onion soup
1/4 cup water
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of a slow cooker crock with nonstick spray or a thin film of oil, then arrange the pork chops in an even layer inside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant butterscotch pudding mix, condensed French onion soup, and water until mostly smooth. The mixture will be thick and glossy.
3. Pour the sauce over the pork chops, making sure each chop is coated well. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or until the pork is tender and cooked through.
4. Once done, spoon some of the sauce over the chops again before serving. If you like, let the chops rest for a few minutes so the sauce settles slightly and clings even more to the meat.
Variations & Tips
Use boneless chops: Boneless pork chops can be used if that is what you have, but choose thicker ones so they stay tender during the long cooking time. Check for doneness a little earlier, since thinner boneless chops can dry out faster.
Deepen the savory flavor: If you want the dish to read a little less sweet, add a pinch of black pepper or a small splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture. That little contrast helps round out the butterscotch and onion combination nicely.
Make the sauce smoother: For a silkier finished sauce, whisk very thoroughly before pouring it over the pork. If the sauce seems too thick at the end of cooking, stir in a tablespoon or two of hot water right in the slow cooker before serving.
Try it with a finishing garnish: A light sprinkle of chopped parsley adds welcome color and freshness to an otherwise rich, golden-brown dish. It is not traditional, but it makes the plate look more polished if you are serving guests.