These Creamy Ranch Pork Chops are super easy to make in a slow cooker! Just throw in some pork chops, cream of mushroom soup, and ranch dressing mix. The result is a juicy and flavorful meal.
Honestly, the best part is how it makes your house smell amazing while it cooks. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes to soak up that rich sauce. Yum! 🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this recipe as they stay tender when cooked slowly. If you prefer, bone-in chops can work too, but you might need to adjust the cooking time a bit.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This gives the dish its signature flavor. You can use a homemade ranch mix if you don’t have a packet. Just combine dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a quick alternative.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: For a healthier option, consider using a low-fat version or even a homemade cream substitute using blended cooked mushrooms and broth. It can offer a fresher taste!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute if you’re looking to cut calories. It gives a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth works just as well for a lighter flavor or if you’re looking for a non-meat option. You could even use water if you’re in a pinch, but broth enhances the taste significantly.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Tender Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops in a slow cooker means they’ll be tender and juicy, but there are a few tricks to ensure they come out perfect:
- Browning (Optional): If you have time, browning the pork chops in a skillet first adds great flavor and helps lock in moisture.
- Cooking Time: Stick to the recommended cooking times. Overcooking can make the pork tough, so set a timer and check for doneness.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking helps keep them juicy. It’s worth the wait!
A good stir of the sauce before serving also helps to mix those rich flavors together. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Creamy Ranch Pork Chops in the Slow Cooker
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for browning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you can let your slow cooker do the work! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You can set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning your pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. If you choose to brown them, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a nice golden color. Then, transfer them to the slow cooker.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ranch dressing mix, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Layer in the Slow Cooker:
Pour half of the creamy sauce mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the pork chops on top, and then pour the remaining sauce evenly over the chops.
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. Choose the low setting for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops will become tender and soak up all that fantastic flavor!
5. Finish and Serve:
When the cooking time is up, give the sauce a good stir to mix any ingredients that may have separated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy ranch pork chops over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to make sure you get every drop of that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but be sure to thaw them completely beforehand for even cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quicker results.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, or even a homemade mushroom sauce. Just ensure the texture is similar to keep the sauce creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, it’s best to thaw in the fridge and then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños into the sauce mixture. Adjust based on your spice preference for the perfect kick.
