This Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops recipe is a real winner! Tender pork chops are slow-cooked with tasty gravy, making each bite melt in your mouth.
The best part? You just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do its magic while you enjoy some free time! It’s a cozy meal that’s perfect for busy days.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this recipe. If you want to try something different, bone-in chops work too! They can add more flavor but may need a little extra cooking time.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is key for creamy gravy. If you prefer a healthier option, use a low-fat version or substitute it with homemade mushroom sauce. It’s still delicious!
Broth: I use beef broth for a richer flavor, but chicken broth works perfectly if that’s what you have on hand. Vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option, too!
Seasonings: You can switch up the garlic and onion powder with fresh versions if you like. Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley offer a nice touch to the flavor.
How Do You Get the Pork Chops Tender and Flavorful?
The secret to tender pork chops is slow cooking. This allows all the flavors to mingle and the meat to become tender. Here are some tips:
- Season the pork chops generously. All those spices really enhance the flavor.
- If you choose to brown the pork chops first, it adds a nice depth of flavor. Just a couple of minutes on each side will do!
- Let the pork chops cook low and slow. This method keeps them juicy and ensures they soak up that creamy gravy.
Remember, patience pays off here. Enjoy the process, and you’ll have a cozy meal ready to share!
Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth or chicken broth
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 6 to 7 hours of cooking time on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high). It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it meal, giving you plenty of time to relax while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will give them a fantastic flavor as they cook!
2. (Optional) Brown the Pork Chops:
If you’d like, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the pork chops for about 2 minutes on each side to seal in the flavors. This step is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor. Once browned, transfer them to the crock pot.
3. Mix the Gravy Ingredients:
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef or chicken broth, sliced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Mix well—this will be your delicious gravy!
4. Combine with Pork Chops:
Pour the gravy mixture over the pork chops in the crock pot, ensuring they’re well covered.
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and fully cooked when done.
6. Thicken the Gravy:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, take out the pork chops and keep them warm. In a small bowl, stir together the flour and water to make a slurry. Mix this into the crock pot liquid to thicken the gravy.
7. Final Cooking:
Cover the crock pot again and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, until the gravy has thickened nicely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the pork chops on plates and smother them with the thickened gravy. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your tasty, tender crock pot smothered pork chops!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops add extra flavor but may require a bit more cooking time. Just make sure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! You can make a homemade mushroom sauce using sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and beef broth, or use a different cream soup like cream of chicken for a similar effect.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, leftovers freeze very well! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, you can opt for leaner cuts of pork, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup, and reduce the amount of added salt. Additionally, serve with a side of steamed vegetables instead of rich sides like mashed potatoes.
