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Slow Cooker Harvest Squash Pork Chops
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These aren't your average pork chops; they're a harvest feast. With a kick of cayenne and a sweet squash twist, they're a game-changer in slow-cooked meals.
serves/makes:
ready in:
2-5 hrs
2-5 hrs
2 reviews
ingredients
5 boneless pork chops or cutlets
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
1 1/4 pound butternut squash, or other similar squash like delicata or acorn
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
2 medium oranges, peeled and sliced
directions
Season the pork chops with cayenne pepper and garlic salt. Place the pork in the bottom of the crock pot.
Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and strings. Peel the squash and cut it crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices.
Place the squash slices on top of the pork. Season the squash with the cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
Place the orange slices on top of the squash.
Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours or until the pork is cooked through. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the pork chops.
Serve the pork chops with the squash.
crock pot notes
Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.recipe tips
Cut the squash into uniform slices for even cooking.
Layer the ingredients in the crock pot as directed. This will help them cook properly.
Avoid lifting the lid of the crock pot too often to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving to allow the meat to reabsorb some liquids.
Serve with a side of greens or a salad for a balanced meal.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.
common recipe questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Is it necessary to peel the squash?
Peeling the squash helps it cook more evenly and makes it easier to eat, but some types like delicata have edible skins.
Can I substitute the squash with another vegetable?
While squash is ideal for this recipe, you can use sweet potatoes or carrots as alternatives.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook on high for about 1.5-2 hours, though low and slow cooking is recommended for better results as pork chops can dry out easily at higher temperatures.
What if I don't have a crock pot?
You can bake the pork and squash in a baking dish in an oven at 350 degrees F for about 45-60 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through.
Is it possible to overcook the pork chops in a crock pot?
Yes, overcooking can make the pork chops dry, so it's important to check them after the minimum cooking time.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can season the pork and cut the squash ahead of time, but it's best cooked fresh for best results.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
nutrition data
301 calories, 15 grams fat, 18 grams carbohydrates, 25 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
December 6, 2016
Pork was dry at just 3.5hrs and the squash was pretty bland.
September 5, 2010
I made the recipe for 2 people and changed it very little, the website called for 1/10 of a teaspoon of ginger, cinnamon and ground cloves. I used 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ginger and 1/5 teaspoon cloves, I also doubled the oranges. I used 2 inch thick boneless chops and it took 5 hours, the meat is so tender and juicy it just falls apart when you try to cut it and the flavor is terrific. I found the butternut squash was a bit bland but a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon fixed it right up. I will make this again, thanks for submitting it. MikeD