This Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops recipe is sure to become a favorite! Juicy pork chops slow-cooked in a delicious gravy make for a comforting and hearty meal.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the magic while you catch up on your favorite show! 😊
I enjoy serving these chops over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that yummy gravy. It’s easy, filling, and perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Thick-cut pork chops work best for this recipe as they stay juicy during cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try boneless pork loin chops. You can also use chicken thighs if you don’t have pork on hand.
Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups create a rich gravy. If you’re avoiding these for health reasons, consider using low-sodium versions or making your own cream sauce with milk and cornstarch. Coconut cream can be a great dairy-free alternative!
Onion Soup Mix: This packs a lot of flavor into the dish. If you’re making it from scratch, combine onion powder, garlic powder, and a bit of beef bouillon. It’s a flavorful substitute if you don’t have the mix.
Broth: You can use beef or chicken broth depending on your preference. Vegetable broth is an excellent option for a lighter taste or for those needing a vegetarian option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops before placing them in the crock pot adds a nice flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a heavy skillet and heat the oil until it shimmers.
- Season your pork chops just before adding them to the skillet. This helps with browning.
- Cook in batches if needed. Don’t overcrowd the skillet as that will lower the temperature, preventing a good sear.
- Each side should only take about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then transfer to the crock pot.
This simple step boosts the overall taste of your dish, making all the difference in flavor!
How to Make Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 thick-cut pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For The Soups:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
For The Flavor:
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and a cook time of 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Perfect for setting and forgetting while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the pork chops with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Sear the chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until nicely browned. This step is optional but helps boost flavor!
2. Prepare the Base:
In your crock pot, layer the bottom with sliced onions and minced garlic. This will infuse the pork chops with extra taste as they cook.
3. Add the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the seared pork chops on top of the onions and garlic in the crock pot.
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, and broth until everything is blended well.
5. Pour the Sauce:
Now, pour the soup mixture evenly over the pork chops in the crock pot, making sure they’re all covered.
6. Cook:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the pork chops are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
7. Final Touch:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a lovely presentation.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your smothered pork chops over fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or any side of your choice to soak up that delicious gravy. Enjoy your hearty meal!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops! Just make sure to thaw them completely before searing for best results. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using leaner cuts of pork like boneless loin chops and low-fat versions of the cream soups. You can also add in some vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Onion Soup Mix?
No worries! You can create your own mix by combining 1 tablespoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, and a bit of beef bouillon or salt. This will give you a flavorful alternative!
How Do I Store 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, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist. Enjoy the delicious leftovers!
