Slow Cooker Southern Tomato Gravy Pork Chops Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To enhance the flavor, consider searing the pork chops in a hot skillet for one minute per side before placing them in the slow cooker. While this is an extra step, it develops a deep, caramelized crust on the exterior of the meat that adds significant depth to the final gravy. Ensure the skillet is very hot to achieve a quick sear without cooking the center of the meat.

If the gravy needs more body, a small amount of cornstarch slurry can be whisked in during the final 30 minutes of cooking. Simply mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir it into the slow cooker.

This will gently thicken the tomato gravy, giving it a more luxurious, velvety texture that clings beautifully to the tender pork chops.

Variations

• Spicy Tomato Gravy: Add one tablespoon of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño to the slow cooker along with the onions and celery. This provides a gentle, warming heat that pairs exceptionally well with the acidity of the stewed tomatoes and the richness of the pork.
• Herb-Infused Pork: Incorporate a tablespoon of dried Italian herb blend or fresh rosemary and thyme during the seasoning step. These aromatic herbs deepen the savory profile of the dish and bridge the gap between the pork and the tomato gravy, adding a sophisticated, earthy dimension to the meal.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

Allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature, but do not exceed two hours. Transfer the pork and gravy into an airtight container.

Keep the meat and sauce stored together, as this helps the pork remain moist and prevents it from drying out in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the dish will maintain its quality and food safety for up to three days in the refrigerator.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator.

In the morning, simply place the insert into the slow cooker base and start the cooking cycle, allowing for a fresh, hot meal with minimal morning effort.

Serving ideas

Serve these pork chops hot, with a generous ladle of the thick tomato gravy poured directly over each chop. The gravy is highly flavorful and pairs perfectly with simple side dishes that can soak up the sauce. Consider serving the pork over creamy mashed potatoes, steamed white rice, or even a side of buttered egg noodles to balance the acidity of the stewed tomatoes.

For a complete meal, pair the pork chops with a crisp green vegetable, such as steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

The freshness of the greens provides a nice contrast to the richness of the slow-cooked pork and tomato gravy. Ensure the plates are warmed before serving to keep the meal at an ideal temperature throughout the dinner.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Southern Tomato Gravy Pork Chops

Prep 10 minCook 8 hRest 5 minTotal 8 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 28 oz stewed tomatoes

Instructions

1. Place the bone-in pork chops in the base of the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Add the sliced onions and sliced celery over the pork, spreading them evenly to build a flavorful base for the gravy.
2. Sprinkle the garlic powder evenly over the pork, onions, and celery. Carefully pour the stewed tomatoes over the entire mixture, ensuring the pork is mostly covered by the tomatoes and juices to keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. Once the time is up, check that the pork chops have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the chops from the slow cooker and let them rest for at least 3 minutes before serving with the thick tomato gravy spooned over the top.

Contains: celery

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

18 g

Fat

20 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

10 g

Sodium

650 mg

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