This pork chops and cabbage Instant Pot recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender, juicy pork with flavorful, soft cabbage. Using the Instant Pot speeds up cooking while locking in moisture and blending the savory flavors, making it a comforting and hassle-free meal.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, 1 to 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into wedges (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Prepare the pork chops: Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Rub this seasoning evenly on both sides of each pork chop.
- Sauté the pork chops: Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and heat olive oil until shimmering. Add pork chops and brown them for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Remove chops and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add sliced onions to the pot and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, scraping up browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. This prevents the burn warning and adds flavor.
- Add cabbage and pork chops: Place cabbage wedges on top of the onion and garlic mixture in the pot. Layer the browned pork chops on top of the cabbage.
- Pressure cook: Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Check and serve: Open the lid and check that pork chops have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The cabbage should be tender but still hold its shape. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Optional finishing touch: For extra flavor, drizzle a little melted butter over the pork chops and cabbage before serving.
Tips
- Substitutions: You can use boneless pork chops, but reduce pressure cooking time to 8 minutes to avoid overcooking. For cabbage, savoy or napa cabbage also works well and adds a slightly different texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the pork.
- Common mistakes: Avoid skipping the deglazing step after sautéing to prevent burn errors and ensure rich flavor. Also, don’t overcook pork chops—10 minutes at high pressure plus natural release is ideal for 1-inch chops.
- Thickness matters: If your pork chops are thicker than 1 inch, add 2-3 minutes to the pressure cooking time and check for doneness carefully.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pork chops and cabbage dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the flavorful juices. For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted carrots or a crisp green salad. A dollop of whole-grain mustard on the side adds a tangy contrast that complements the pork and cabbage perfectly.
Variations
To add extra depth, try incorporating sliced apples or diced potatoes layered with the cabbage before pressure cooking. For a smoky twist, substitute smoked sausage for pork chops or add a splash of liquid smoke. You can also experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or marjoram instead of thyme. For a spicier version, increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover pork chops and cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture. Avoid reheating pork chops multiple times to prevent dryness. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked dish in a sealed container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen pork chops in this Instant Pot recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but increase the pressure cooking time to 15 minutes with a natural release to ensure they cook through safely and evenly. Always check the internal temperature to be sure it reaches 145°F (63°C).
Is it necessary to brown the pork chops first?
Browning the pork chops adds flavor and improves the overall texture of the dish, but it’s optional. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and cook directly, although the chops won’t have the same caramelized crust.
What if my cabbage is very large or small?
Adjust the quantity of cabbage to fit your Instant Pot and personal preference. If using a larger cabbage, you may want to cut it into smaller wedges or remove some outer leaves to prevent overcrowding. Smaller cabbages can be used whole or halved to maintain even cooking.
Can I make this recipe with pork tenderloin or pork shoulder?
Yes, pork tenderloin can be used but will require less cooking time (about 8 minutes at high pressure) to avoid drying out. Pork shoulder, being tougher, benefits from longer cooking (20-25 minutes) to become tender but may require adjusting the cabbage cooking time accordingly.
How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming too mushy?
Cut cabbage into larger wedges and avoid overcooking by sticking to the recommended 10 minutes pressure cook plus natural release time. Quick releasing pressure immediately after cooking can result in less tender cabbage but may leave it crunchier if preferred.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely. Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips can be added beneath the cabbage layer for a one-pot meal. Adjust the cooking time if adding dense vegetables, or cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly within the 10-minute pressure cycle.
This Instant Pot pork chops and cabbage recipe is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both quick and easy to prepare. Its simple ingredient list and minimal cleanup make it ideal for busy weeknights or comforting weekend dinners alike. With versatile options for substitutions and additions, it’s a go-to recipe that suits many tastes and occasions.
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