This Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops Recipe is perfect for busy days! The pork chops cook slowly, soaking up all the tasty flavors while staying juicy and tender.
Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing! I love serving them over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious gravy. You won’t want to miss a single bite! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add great flavor and stay moist during cooking. If you only have boneless chops, they will work too, but watch the cooking time as they might cook faster.
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re not an onion fan, you could use shallots or even omit them altogether. Chopped green onions can be a nice fresh alternative, especially for garnishing.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but I recommend fresh for the best taste.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This brings creaminess to the dish. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider using a dairy-free cream soup or a homemade creamy sauce made with coconut milk or blended cauliflower.
Broth: The choice between chicken or beef broth can influence the flavor. Vegetable broth is a great alternative for those following a plant-based diet. Keep the broth low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork Chops?
The key to tender pork chops in the crock pot is low and slow cooking. Cooking at low heat allows the meat to break down and absorb flavors without drying out. Here are some tips:
- Always brown the pork chops before placing them in the crock pot. This creates a nice crust and enhances flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking time. Allow at least 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. The longer the chops cook, the more tender they’ll become.
- If you like a thick sauce, adding a bit of flour at the end works wonders. Just whisk it in well and let it cook to thicken.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious, easy dinner that’s sure to please everyone!
Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For the Cooking Base:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
For Browning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 6-7 hours of cooking on low (or about 3-4 hours on high) in the crock pot. So, set it and forget it, and enjoy the amazing aroma filling your home while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Pork Chops:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and lightly brown them on both sides for about 2-3 minutes each. This step adds flavor and color, so don’t skip it! Once browned, transfer the pork chops to your crock pot.
2. Sautéing the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions have softened and are fragrant. You want to draw out that sweet flavor!
3. Creating the Sauce:
Next, add the cream of mushroom soup, broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir it all together until well combined and heated through. This will be the delicious sauce that makes the dish extra special!
4. Combining Everything in the Crock Pot:
Pour the creamy onion mixture over the pork chops, ensuring they are mostly covered. This will help the flavors meld together as they cook.
5. Cooking:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops will become tender and flavorful as they soak in all the goodness! Check for doneness; they should easily fall off the bone.
6. Thickening the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can remove the pork chops after they’re cooked. In a small bowl, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour into the sauce in the crock pot, then cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until thickened. Once ready, return the pork chops back into the thickened sauce.
7. Serving:
Garnish your delicious pork chops with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish to soak up the amazing sauce. Enjoy your flavorful, tender crock pot smothered pork chops!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a bit earlier than the recommended times (around 2-3 hours on high).
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut milk or a homemade creamy blend of blended cauliflower. Just make sure to choose a dairy-free broth as well!
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, avoiding rapid heating which can dry out the pork chops.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
