This Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops recipe is a lifesaver! It features juicy pork chops cooked slowly in a creamy sauce, making it super tender and full of flavor.
Just pop everything in the crock pot, set it, and let it do its magic! I love serving these with mashed potatoes to soak up all that tasty sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for better flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops can work too, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness to the dish. If you’re not a fan of onions, you could use shallots or skip them entirely. If you’re allergic, try adding sautéed bell peppers for flavor.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base for the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use a low-fat version or even a homemade cream sauce made with milk and mushrooms. Dairy-free soup can also be used for a dairy-free version.
Beef Broth: It adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be good substitutes. Just note that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Paprika: This spice adds a nice color and mild flavor. Smoked paprika can give a deeper taste, while sweet paprika is great for less heat. If you’re out of paprika, a dash of cayenne could work!
How Do I Get Tender, Juicy Pork Chops in a Crock Pot?
The key to tender pork chops is low and slow cooking! Follow these tips for the best results:
- Season well: Give your pork chops a nice rub with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance their flavor.
- Browning first: Always brown your chops in the skillet before adding them to the crock pot. This adds a flavorful crust.
- Don’t overcook: Stick to the cooking times. Low heat for 6-7 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours will ensure they stay juicy.
- Rest before serving: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep them juicy when you cut into them.
Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and cooks for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. Total time required is around 6-7 hours, but most of this is hands-off cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides. This step adds great flavor to the meat!
2. Browning the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and brown them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once browned, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cooking the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This adds a nice aromatic flavor to your dish!
4. Making the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook it for about 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth while stirring to prevent any lumps. Finally, stir in the cream of mushroom soup and Worcestershire sauce until everything is smooth.
5. Assembling in the Crock Pot:
Pour the onion and sauce mixture into the crock pot. Carefully place the browned pork chops on top of the sauce layer. This helps keep the pork moist while cooking!
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook the pork chops on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until they are tender and fully cooked. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
7. Serving the Dish:
Once cooked, check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color if you’d like. Serve your smothered pork chops with fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables to soak up that delicious sauce. Dig in!
Enjoy your easy, comforting crock pot smothered pork chops!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will work, but be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on high or the 5-hour mark on low to avoid overcooking.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you want a healthier option, you can use a low-fat cream of mushroom soup. Alternatively, you could make your own creamy sauce using sautéed mushrooms, cream, and a bit of flour for thickening, or use a dairy-free version if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the dish moist.
What Can I Serve with Smothered Pork Chops?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
