– **Title**: Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté until they become translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, and paprika until well combined.
5. Pour half of the soup mixture into the bottom of the Crock Pot. Layer the seared pork chops on top, and then pour the remaining soup mixture over the chops.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender.
7. Serve the pork chops with the gravy from the Crock Pot over rice, mashed potatoes, or your choice of side. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this recipe since they cook quickly and stay tender. However, you can use bone-in chops for more flavor or swap them with chicken breasts for a lighter option.
Cream of Mushroom & Chicken Soup: These soups create a creamy base for the dish. If you’re dairy-free, look for coconut or almond cream soups as alternatives. For a homemade touch, consider making your own cream soup using a roux and broth.
Onion Soup Mix: This adds tons of flavor. If you prefer, you can make your own mix using dried onions, garlic powder, and some herbs. It’s healthier and allows you to customize flavors.
Beef Broth: This liquid enhances the richness of the sauce. If you want a lighter taste, you can swap in chicken broth or vegetable broth. For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is labeled accordingly.
Fresh Parsley: Use fresh parsley for garnish to brighten the dish. If you don’t have it on hand, chives or green onions work well too.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender and Delicious?
Cooking pork chops in the crock pot allows them to become wonderfully tender! The key is to follow these steps for a great result:
- Season well: Be generous with salt and pepper to enhance the pork’s flavor.
- Layer wisely: Always place the pork chops at the bottom of the crock pot; this allows them to soak in the sauce and moisture.
- Low and slow is best: Cooking on low for 6-7 hours will yield juicier chops. If you’re in a hurry, cooking on high for 3-4 hours is fine, but keep an eye on them.
- Stir the sauce: After removing the chops, stirring the sauce helps combine flavors and gives a richer finish.
Follow these tips for perfectly cooked, tender pork chops with a flavorful sauce every time!
How to Make Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- ½ cup beef broth (or water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these tasty smothered pork chops takes about 10 minutes for prep and then you’ll let your crock pot do the magic! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours—that’s up to you! It’s simple and perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning your pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor to the meat and will make your dish super tasty!
2. Place in the Crock Pot:
Next, take your prepared pork chops and place them in the bottom of the crock pot. Make sure they’re laid out nice and flat to soak up all the deliciousness later.
3. Mix the Sauces:
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir everything together well until it’s nice and smooth. This will make a rich, tasty sauce to cover those chops!
4. Pour and Cook:
Now, pour your soup mixture over the pork chops in the crock pot. Cover it all up with the lid and set your crock pot to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
5. Finish Up:
Once cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork chops from the crock pot. Give the sauce a good stir to mix everything together nicely. This helps to create a creamy sauce that will go wonderfully on your pork chops.
6. Serve and Garnish:
It’s time to serve! Place the pork chops on plates and spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your delicious easy crock pot smothered pork chops!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops; just adjust the cooking time slightly. They might need an additional 30 minutes to an hour to become tender. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with an equal amount of cream of celery soup or even a homemade white sauce with sautéed mushrooms. This way, you’ll still achieve that creamy texture and rich flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function to brown the pork chops first, then add the soup mixture. Cook on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes, followed by a natural release. Enjoy the same delicious flavors in less time!
