Slow Cooker Pimento Cheese Pork Chops

These slow cooker pimento cheese pork chops turn a Southern classic into an effortless weeknight dinner. Just layer boneless pork chops with diced pimentos, shredded sharp cheddar, and cream cheese in the slow cooker, then let the appliance do the work. The result is tender, juicy pork smothered in a rich, creamy, cheesy sauce with a hint of sweetness from the pimentos.

Pimento cheese is a beloved Southern spread made from cheddar, pimentos, and cream cheese. Here, it transforms into a luscious sauce that coats pork chops as they cook low and slow. The method is wonderfully simple: place the pork in the slow cooker, top with pimentos and cheese, and let the heat meld everything into a creamy, savory sauce.

The pork chops come out fork-tender, and the sauce is so good you'll want to spoon it over everything on the plate. This is comfort food at its easiest, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and a slow cooker.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

Cooking pork chops in a slow cooker on low heat breaks down the meat's connective tissue, making even lean boneless chops tender and juicy. The low, steady temperature prevents the meat from drying out, which is a common problem with quick-cooking methods like pan-searing.

The long, moist cooking environment also allows the flavors of the cheddar, pimentos, and cream cheese to meld into a cohesive, rich sauce that clings to every bite.

The combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese creates a sauce that is both creamy and tangy, with the pimentos adding a subtle sweetness and a pop of color.

Because the cheese melts slowly over the pork, it forms a protective layer that helps keep the meat moist while infusing it with flavor. This hands-off technique is forgiving and reliable, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks who want a satisfying, homemade dinner without constant attention.

Notes and substitutions

For the best flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese and shred it yourself from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce.

Full-fat cream cheese is essential for a smooth, rich sauce; reduced-fat versions may not melt as well. Diced pimentos are available in jars in most supermarkets; if you can't find them, roasted red peppers chopped finely are a good substitute.

Boneless pork chops are the easiest to use here, but bone-in chops work too—just adjust the cooking time slightly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce along with the pimentos. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check the labels of your ingredients to be sure.

• Boneless pork chops: Boneless chicken breasts or thighs (adjust cooking time to 2-3 hours on low; ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a smoked cheddar for a deeper flavor.
• Diced pimentos: Roasted red peppers, finely chopped, for a similar sweetness and color.
• Cream cheese: Mascarpone or full-fat Greek yogurt (add at the end to prevent curdling).

Equipment

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Serving spoon