These Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops are a real treat! Tender pork chops cooked slowly in a rich gravy make dinner feel special with minimal effort.
Can’t wait to smell this filling dish cooking all day! I love serving it over mashed potatoes for a cozy meal that warms the heart. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops work best for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops will do. Just be careful not to overcook them!
Onion Soup Mix: This mix adds a delicious depth of flavor. You can make your own by combining dried onion, beef bouillon, and seasonings if you like to control sodium or avoid processed ingredients.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, try cream of chicken soup instead! It provides great creaminess without the mushroom flavor.
Beef Broth: Beef broth enhances the dish’s richness but chicken or vegetable broth will work just as well. You can even use water in a pinch, though it might be less flavorful.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color. However, if you don’t have it, feel free to skip or use dried parsley instead.
How Do I Achieve Tender Pork Chops in the Crock Pot?
To ensure your pork chops turn out tender, follow these key steps:
- Start by browning the pork chops in a skillet. This step enhances the flavor and gives a nice color.
- Layer the sliced onions at the bottom of the crock pot. This helps keep the chops moist and adds flavor.
- Cook on low heat for longer (6-8 hours), as this breaks down the meat fibers and makes it incredibly tender.
- For an even creamier sauce, consider removing the chops and thickening the gravy with cornstarch at the end.
Don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow is the way to go for the best results!
Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 envelope (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and will need 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. Plus, it’s worth the wait for a warm home-cooked meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial as it adds flavor to the meat.
2. Browning the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown. This browning step enhances the flavor but is optional if you’re in a hurry.
3. Preparing the Crock Pot:
Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the crock pot. This creates a flavorful base for the pork chops and ensures they don’t stick to the bottom.
4. Adding the Pork Chops:
Lay the browned pork chops on top of the onions in the crock pot. This layering will let the flavors meld beautifully as it cooks.
5. Mixing the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth (or water), minced garlic, and any optional dried herbs until everything is well combined. This will be your flavorful sauce.
6. Pouring the Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops in the crock pot, ensuring they’re well-covered. This will keep the chops moist and flavorful as they cook.
7. Cooking:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the pork chops are tender and fully cooked through.
8. Thickening the Gravy (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove the pork chops after cooking. Stir the sauce and mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Add this mixture to the gravy and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes until thickened.
9. Serving:
Serve the succulent pork chops smothered in the creamy onion gravy. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
10. Enjoy:
These delicious pork chops are perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles, making for a hearty and comforting meal. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops! Just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking for even cooking. It’s best to thaw them in the fridge overnight or under cold water in a sealed bag. This ensures they cook properly in the crock pot.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
Absolutely! You can use leaner cuts of pork, like boneless loin chops, and opt for a low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and broth to reduce the sodium content. You can also add more vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to boost the nutrition.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. Simply whisk together flour, butter, and milk, and season it as desired. This will give you a similarly creamy texture without the mushroom flavor!
