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Slow Cooker Applesauce Pork Chops

This easy slow cooker recipe shows how an everyday condiment can become a delicious cooking sauce. Applesauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger combine to create a sweet and savory glaze that keeps pork chops tender while they cook.

Slow cooker applesauce pork chops

Ingredients

  • 2 cups applesauce
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 6 pork loin chops
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

  1. In a medium bowl, stir together the applesauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
  2. With adult supervision, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Brown both sides of the pork chops for 2–3 minutes. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you're short on time.
  4. Place the pork chops into the slow cooker.
  5. Pour the applesauce mixture evenly over the pork chops.
  6. Cover and cook on Low for about 6 hours, or until the pork is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Oven Option: Place the browned pork chops in a baking dish, pour the sauce over the top, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 30–40 minutes, or until the pork reaches 145°F.

Kid Chef Tips

  • Measure all of the sauce ingredients before you begin cooking to make mixing quick and easy.
  • Browning the pork chops first adds color and extra flavor, but the recipe will still work if you skip this step.
  • Use a meat thermometer to make sure pork reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F, then let it rest for 3 minutes before serving.
  • This sauce is also delicious spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or stuffing.

Try These Variations

  • Add sliced onions or apple slices to the slow cooker before cooking.
  • Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor.
  • Use cinnamon applesauce for a slightly sweeter fall-inspired meal.
  • Replace the ginger with a pinch of cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
  • Serve with roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, or steamed carrots for a complete dinner.
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Recipe, image and content from Kids-Cooking-Activities.com