Creamy Tomato Basil Slow Cooker Pork Chops Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, sear the pork chops in a hot skillet for one minute per side before placing them in the slow cooker. This extra step adds a caramelized crust to the meat that enhances the overall richness of the final sauce. However, this is entirely optional and the recipe works perfectly well without it for those seeking a truly hands-off experience.

If the sauce appears too thin after stirring in the cream cheese, remove the lid and leave the slow cooker on the high setting for an additional 15 minutes.

This allows some of the excess moisture to evaporate, concentrating the flavors and thickening the sauce to the desired consistency. Always watch the sauce closely during this extra time to prevent it from scorching on the bottom of the crock.

Variations

• Spicy Tomato Basil: Add one teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes along with the dried basil for a gentle heat that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce.
• Garlic Herb Pork: Add three cloves of minced fresh garlic along with the onions to enhance the aromatic profile of the dish and provide a classic savory depth.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the food cools to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before placing it in the fridge to maintain safety and quality.

When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and prevent separation.

This dish is excellent for making ahead as the flavors continue to meld in the refrigerator. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker crock the night before and keep it in the refrigerator, then simply place the crock into the base and start the cooking process in the morning or early afternoon for a ready-to-eat dinner.

Serving ideas

Serve these pork chops hot, spooning a generous amount of the creamy tomato basil sauce over the meat. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, which help to balance the richness of the creamy sauce.

A side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes is also an excellent choice for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.

For a complete meal, consider serving the pork chops over a bed of al dente pasta or fluffy rice. The sauce acts as a perfect accompaniment to these starches, creating a cohesive and satisfying dinner.

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or a touch of cracked black pepper just before serving to add a bright, fresh finish that complements the deep, savory notes of the slow-cooked meat.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Tomato Basil Slow Cooker Pork Chops

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 count boneless pork chops
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 15 oz crushed tomatoes
• 8 oz cream cheese

Instructions

1. Place the boneless pork chops into the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring they are arranged in an even layer. Scatter the diced onion over the pork. Sprinkle the dried basil evenly across the surface of the meat and onions.
2. Pour the crushed tomatoes over the seasoned pork chops. Place the block of cream cheese directly on top of the tomato layer. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to low, cooking for 4 hours until the pork is tender.
3. Remove the lid and stir the softened cream cheese into the tomato juices to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

8 g

Fat

28 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

5 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.