These creamy ranch slow cooker pork chops are a treat! They cook in a delicious ranch sauce that makes them so tender and flavorful. Plus, you hardly have to lift a finger!
Don’t you just love meals that cook themselves? I can just set it and forget it! After a long day, a plate of these juicy chops is such a cozy way to relax.
I enjoy serving them with mashed potatoes to soak up all that yummy sauce. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds—or even thirds! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops work too, but they can dry out faster, so keep an eye on cooking time.
Ranch Seasoning: This packet is key for flavor! If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can combine dried herbs like dill, onion powder, and garlic powder for a homemade version.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and tang. If you want a healthier twist, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute; it’s high in protein and will give a similar texture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives the dish that creamy base. If you prefer something lighter, you could use a cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using broth and a bit of flour for thickening.
Chicken Broth: It enhances the sauce flavor. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth. Vegetable broth is also a good alternative for a different flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops are Tender?
To achieve tender pork chops, searing them in the skillet before slow cooking is super helpful. This browning locks in moisture and adds depth to the flavor.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high and add olive oil or butter.
- Place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until each side is browned.
- Then transfer them to the slow cooker with the creamy ranch sauce. The slow cooking process will help them become incredibly tender!
Remember, cooking on LOW for longer is the best way to ensure tenderness, so keep that timing in mind!
Creamy Ranch Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for searing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time. After you’ve assembled everything, the slow cooker will do its job for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, brown the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a nice golden color. This is optional, but it adds a lot of delicious flavor!
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, minced garlic, and dried parsley (if using). This creamy mixture will be the base of your sauce.
4. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seared pork chops in the slow cooker and pour the creamy ranch sauce mixture over them. Make sure the chops are well-coated with the sauce.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. You want the pork chops to be tender and fully cooked through.
6. Serve:
Before serving, give the sauce a good stir to combine everything. Serve the pork chops warm, with the creamy ranch sauce spooned over them.
7. Enjoy:
This dish is fantastic served with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies to soak up all the delicious sauce. Enjoy your comforting meal!
FAQ for Creamy Ranch Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they may cook faster and could dry out more easily, so check for doneness a bit earlier than the recommended time.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can make a homemade version using a mix of chicken broth and flour or cornstarch to thicken, or simply use cream of chicken soup as a substitute.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover 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 stovetop. Add a splash of broth to keep the sauce creamy!
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow the cooked pork chops and sauce to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove.
