This Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes dish is a warm hug on a plate! Juicy pork chops simmer with tender potatoes in a tasty sauce, making dinner effortless and comforting.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss. Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it work its magic—you’ll be rewarded with a meal everyone loves!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this recipe. If you want, you can use bone-in chops for extra flavor, or even swap them for chicken breasts or thighs if you’re in the mood for a change.
Potatoes: I recommend using medium potatoes, like Yukon gold or red potatoes, as they hold up well in slow cooking. If you prefer, sweet potatoes make a delicious alternative that adds a sweet twist!
Onion: A sliced medium onion adds depth to the dish. For a milder flavor, consider using a sweet onion or shallots as a substitute.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives the dish creaminess and flavor. If you’re avoiding cream soups, you can use a homemade white sauce or even a dairy-free version using coconut milk with some seasoning.
How to Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork Chops?
To make sure your pork chops come out tender and juicy, searing them first in a skillet is key. This locks in the flavors and moisture. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high heat before adding oil. Make sure it’s hot enough so that the chops sizzle when they hit the pan.
- Sear each chop for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
- After searing, place the chops directly into the crock pot on top of the vegetables. This method will help keep them moist during the long cooking process!
Easy Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then it slow cooks for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s an easy way to set it and forget it, perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. This adds a great flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, carefully add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned. This step helps lock in flavors but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. Prepare the Crock Pot:
Start by placing the chopped potatoes into the bottom of your crock pot. On top of the potatoes, add the sliced onions and minced garlic to bring some delicious aroma to the dish.
4. Lay the Pork Chops:
Now, it’s time to lay the seared pork chops right on top of the vegetables in the crock pot.
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth and condensed cream of mushroom soup. Stir until everything is well mixed and you have a nice creamy sauce.
6. Pour the Sauce:
Pour the sauce evenly over the pork chops and veggies in the crock pot, ensuring everything is well covered.
7. Cook:
Cover your crock pot securely with its lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s done when the pork is tender and fully cooked, and the potatoes are nice and soft!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, you can add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve everything warm, and enjoy your hearty, comforting dish!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by an hour or so, as they take longer to reach the right temperature in the crock pot.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor or want to avoid cream soups, you can use cream of chicken soup, or make a homemade white sauce using milk and flour. You can also blend some sautéed mushrooms into a creamy sauce for a fresh variation!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with Pork Chops and Potatoes?
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add some crunch and balance the meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
