There is something about pork chops, apples, and maple syrup that just feels like fall in the Midwest, especially when the slow cooker does most of the work for you. This recipe is the kind of low-effort dinner that tastes like you planned way ahead, with tender pork chops soaking up sweet-savory flavor from just a handful of ingredients. It is perfect for busy weekdays, chilly weekends, or anytime you want a cozy dinner that makes the house smell amazing.
Serve these maple apple pork chops with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or rice to catch all of that sweet sauce. A simple green vegetable like roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or steamed broccoli balances the richness nicely, and warm dinner rolls or a crisp side salad make it feel like a full comfort-food meal.
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Maple Apple Pork Chops
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 bone-in pork chops
2 apples, thinly sliced
1 cup maple syrup
1 packet onion soup mix
Directions
1. Lightly grease the inside of a slow cooker, then spread half of the sliced apples across the bottom.
2. Place the pork chops on top of the apples in an even layer.
3. Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the pork chops, then top with the remaining apple slices.
4. Pour the maple syrup over everything, cover, and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is tender and cooked through.
5. Spoon some of the sauce and apples over the pork chops before serving, and serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Use boneless chops: Boneless pork chops work too, but they can cook a little faster and may not stay quite as juicy as bone-in. Check them early so they do not overcook.
Choose the right apples: Firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady hold their shape best and give the dish a nice balance against the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Add a savory touch: If you want a little more depth, a pinch of black pepper, a small spoonful of Dijon mustard, or a sprig of fresh thyme fits right in without making the recipe feel complicated.
Thicken the sauce: For a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops when done and let the slow cooker sit uncovered for a few minutes, or transfer the liquid to a saucepan and simmer briefly until slightly reduced.
Meal prep tip: Slice the apples the night before and store them in the fridge with a little lemon water to slow browning. In the morning, all you have to do is layer everything into the slow cooker and turn it on.