Family dinners often bring a comforting sense of warmth and togetherness, and few dishes capture that feeling like a good casserole. Growing up in the Midwest, casseroles were a go-to for busy evenings when everyone needed a hearty, satisfying meal without too much fuss. This herb-infused casserole chops recipe is a flavorful update on those classic meals, marrying tender pork chops with the vibrant aromas of fresh rosemary and thyme. The combination of tomatoes, savory sauce, and a touch of sweetness creates a deliciously balanced dish that fills the kitchen with inviting scents. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but special enough to serve when guests come over. This slow cooker method ensures the pork chops come out juicy and infused with rich flavors, making your mealtime both simple and memorable.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown vinegar
- 1 cup beef stock
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Directions
- Arrange the pork chops in the bottom of your slow cooker, layering sliced onions and tomatoes over the top.
- In a bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown vinegar, beef stock, brown sugar, garlic, and chili flakes if using. Add rosemary and thyme sprigs to the sauce.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the pork chops and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on high for about 3 hours or until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Thirty minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
- Serve hot, enjoying the fragrant herbs and rich sauce.
Variations & Tips
Swap pork chops for chicken breasts for a lighter twist. Adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar or honey. Boost heat by increasing chili flakes. Experiment with different herbs such as basil or oregano for new flavors.
Nutritional & Dietary Notes
This dish provides a good source of protein and is enriched with herbs that offer antioxidants and natural flavor without added salt. The tomato base delivers vitamins and minerals, while brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce contribute a subtle sweetness and umami depth. For those watching sugar intake, the brown sugar amount can be reduced. Using lean pork chops helps keep the fat content moderate. Cornstarch is used as a gluten-free thickener, but check labels if you have sensitivities.