This Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops Recipe is all about tender meat topped with a creamy, flavorful gravy. It’s a cozy meal that practically cooks itself!
You just set it and forget it—my favorite kind of cooking! Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a warm and filling dinner that everyone will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops provide great flavor and moisture. If you prefer, boneless chops work too, but they may cook faster. You could also use chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Onion Soup Mix: This adds a delicious depth of flavor. If you want to avoid pre-packaged mixes, you can create your own with dried onion, thyme, and pepper. It might take a bit longer but is worth it!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is a classic base for the gravy. If you don’t like mushrooms, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup. Some even enjoy a homemade version with heavy cream and sautéed mushrooms.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitution, but it may add a slightly different flavor. I personally find sour cream to be richer and more satisfying in this dish.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Browned Pork Chops?
Browning the pork chops adds so much flavor! It’s an optional step, but I highly recommend it. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use a skillet heated to medium-high. Add your oil and let it get hot before adding the chops.
- Place the chops in the pan but don’t crowd them; leave some space between each one.
- Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are a beautiful golden brown.
This step not only enhances the taste but also gives a nice texture. Once they’re done, move them to the crock pot for the slow cooking magic to happen!
How to Make Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 to 6 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Gravy:
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks for 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crock pot. So, you can set it in the morning and come home to a warm, comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor directly to the meat, making it taste more delicious.
2. Brown the Pork Chops (Optional):
In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and brown them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a nice golden color. This step is optional but helps enhance the flavor!
3. Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
In the bottom of your crock pot, place the sliced onions and minced garlic. This will create a flavorful base for the pork chops. Next, lay the browned pork chops on top of the onions.
4. Add the Soup and Seasoning:
Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the pork chops. In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and beef broth. Mix until smooth, then pour this mixture over the chops and onions in the crock pot.
5. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops are ready once they are tender and cooked through!
6. Final Touches:
Once the cooking time is up, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the smothered pork chops and ladle the creamy gravy over the top. They’re fantastic served alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that lovely touch!
Enjoy your delicious, tender Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so start checking for doneness a little earlier to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup as a substitute. For a homemade option, mix heavy cream with sautéed mushrooms if desired, or simply use a white sauce as a base.
Can I Cook This Dish on High Instead of Low?
Absolutely! Cooking on high is a great option when you’re short on time. Just set your crock pot to high and it will be ready in about 3-4 hours instead of the 6-8 hours on low.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover smothered pork chops 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 broth or water to keep the gravy from thickening too much.
