This Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops recipe is a life-saver! Juicy pork chops swim in a tasty gravy made with cream of mushroom soup and onion soup mix. Yum!
I love how hands-off this dish is—just throw everything in the crock pot and let it do the work. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a warm meal without much fuss!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work best for this recipe since they cook quickly and tenderly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This soup gives the dish a creamy texture. If you’re avoiding cream or want a healthier option, try using a homemade mushroom gravy or low-fat cream of mushroom soup.
Onion Soup Mix: The dry onion soup mix adds depth of flavor. You can substitute it with a mix of dried onions, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt if you’re avoiding packaged mixes.
Broth: Using beef broth enhances the flavor, but feel free to use vegetable broth or chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand. It won’t affect the outcome too much.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender and Juicy?
Getting tender pork chops in the crock pot is all about the slow cooking! Here’s how to make sure they turn out juicy:
- Start by searing the pork chops on each side. This step adds flavor and helps lock in juices.
- Layer the pork chops neatly at the bottom of the pot; overlapping them can lead to uneven cooking.
- Cook on low heat for the recommended time. This slower method helps break down tough fibers, making them tender.
Don’t lift the lid too often—keep the steam inside to cook the chops evenly!
Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4-6 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 package (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (to sear the pork chops, optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and can cook for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. It’s a perfect “set it and forget it” meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Pork Chops (Optional):
If you want to enhance the flavor, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This adds a delicious crust and boosts the flavor, but it’s totally optional.
2. Prepare the Soup Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, dry onion soup mix, water or beef broth, minced garlic (if you’re using it), and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Layer in the Crock Pot:
Place the pork chops at the bottom of the crock pot in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly. Then, pour the soup mixture evenly over the pork chops, making sure to cover them as much as possible.
4. Cook:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and cooked through, ready for a delicious meal!
5. Check and Season:
Before serving, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding a little more salt and pepper.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your smothered pork chops with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if you like. Serve them alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies, and don’t forget to spoon extra gravy over everything for extra flavor!
Enjoy this easy, tender, and flavorful crock pot meal!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use cream of chicken soup, or for a dairy-free alternative, consider using a coconut milk-based cream or homemade mushroom gravy. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pork chops in their gravy. Just make sure to let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be thawed and reheated in the microwave or on the stove.
What Can I Serve with Smothered Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the gravy. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!
