This Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops recipe is a dream come true for busy cooks. Tender pork chops slow-cooked in a rich, creamy sauce make dinner simple and so satisfying!
You’ll love how the flavors come together while you kick back. Just toss everything in the crock pot, and let it work its magic. I always serve it with mashed potatoes—perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture, but boneless chops work fine too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin instead. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Onion Soup Mix: This adds great depth to the dish. If you’re avoiding processed foods, you can make your own mix using dried onion flakes, beef bouillon, and a bit of garlic powder.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives creaminess to the sauce. If you’re not a mushroom fan, you can substitute with cream of chicken or even cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative, or even replace it with more cream if you prefer a richer sauce.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Tender Pork Chops in a Crock Pot?
The secret to juicy, tender pork chops is cooking them low and slow. The crock pot does this beautifully. Here’s how:
- Brown the chops in a skillet for added flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended.
- Layer the onions and garlic first in the crock pot. This prevents the pork from sticking and adds extra flavor.
- Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours for best results, keeping lid on to maintain moisture.
- Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
Enjoy your meal with sides that complement the creamy sauce, like mashed potatoes or rice. Happy cooking!
Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 to 6 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
For the Aromatics:
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you let your crock pot do all the work! Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. By the end, you’ll have tender, smothered pork chops ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Pork Chops:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Brown the pork chops on each side for about 2-3 minutes. This step adds extra flavor, but if you’re pressed for time, you can go straight to the next step!
2. Prepare the Crock Pot:
In your crock pot, lay the sliced onions and minced garlic on the bottom. This creates a tasty base for the pork chops as they cook.
3. Layer the Chops:
Carefully arrange the browned pork chops on top of the onions and garlic in the crock pot.
4. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and beef broth until smooth. This creamy sauce will smother the pork chops beautifully!
5. Pour the Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops. Make sure they are well coated for maximum flavor!
6. Cook:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and fully cooked when they’re done.
7. Serve:
Once finished, you can garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the smothered pork chops over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that delicious sauce!
This recipe makes for a simple yet satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy your easy and hearty crock pot dinner!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in. Check for an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom flavor or need a substitute, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade cream sauce. A mixture of heavy cream with a bit of flour can also work as a great alternative!
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or warm them on the stove until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything in the crock pot the night before and store it in the fridge. Just cook it in the morning as you usually would, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready for dinner!
