These Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops are a cozy dish that cooks slowly to bring out all the yummy flavors. With tender meat and a rich gravy, they’re perfect for any dinner!
You’ll love how easy it is to make—I just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do its magic. This dish pairs great with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that tasty gravy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops for this recipe. If you can’t find pork, chicken thighs or even beef can work as substitutes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cream of Mushroom & Cream of Chicken Soup: These add creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, low-fat soups or homemade versions can be used. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or a mix of vegetable broth with flour can substitute.
Onion & Mushrooms: Fresh onions and mushrooms are best for flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen sliced mushrooms or pre-sautéed onions. Dried mushrooms can also work – just rehydrate them first!
Chicken Broth: This is essential for flavor. Swap it with vegetable broth or beef broth for a different taste. If you don’t have broth, water with a splash of soy sauce can add some flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor Boost with Searing?
Searing the pork chops before adding them to the slow cooker isn’t mandatory, but it makes a big difference in flavor. The caramelization during searing enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil.
- Season the pork chops, then sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they have a golden-brown crust.
- Don’t rush this step; let them develop that nice color for extra flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot?
The order in which you layer your ingredients can affect cooking. Start with the sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom to infuse their flavor into the pork chops as they cook.
- Place the onions and mushrooms first, so they cook well and become tender.
- Next, lay the pork chops on top; this keeps them moist.
- Finally, pour the soup mixture evenly over everything to ensure all ingredients are well-coated and flavor-packed.
Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (fresh or canned)
To Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you can let your Crock Pot do the work for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a comforting meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Make sure to coat both sides well for maximum flavor!
2. Searing (Optional):
If you want to add some extra flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. This step is optional, but it adds a great depth of flavor!
3. Preparing the Crock Pot:
In your Crock Pot, layer the sliced onion and mushrooms at the bottom. This will create a tasty base for the pork chops.
4. Adding the Pork Chops:
Place the seared pork chops on top of the onions and mushrooms in the Crock Pot. This lets all those great flavors mix together as they cook!
5. Mixing the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this creamy mixture over the pork chops in the Crock Pot, coating them well.
6. Cooking:
Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops are done when they are tender and cooked through.
7. Finishing Touches:
Once the cooking time is up, gently remove the pork chops and set them on a plate. Give the sauce in the Crock Pot a little stir to mix everything together.
8. Serving:
Serve the delicious pork chops over mashed potatoes or rice, and spoon some of that creamy sauce over the top. It’s comfort food at its best!
9. Garnishing:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a lovely finish. And that’s it—enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use other cuts such as pork loin or boneless pork chops if you prefer. Just ensure that the pork is at least 1 inch thick for optimal cooking time and tenderness. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using a thicker or thinner cut.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream soups on hand or want a healthier option, you can substitute with homemade cream sauce or even plain Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of broth for a tangy twist. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using cashew cream or a non-dairy cream substitute.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything in advance! Just season the pork chops and layer all ingredients in the Crock Pot, then store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just set the Crock Pot to cook. It’s a great meal prep option for busy days!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to loosen it up.
