This Easy Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops recipe is a tasty treat! Juicy pork chops slow-cooked in creamy gravy make for a comforting dinner that everyone will love.
The best part? You just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the work! I often serve it over mashed potatoes—because why not add some extra yum to the meal?
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 nicely too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they cook faster.
Soups: Cream of mushroom and onion soups add creaminess. You can easily swap these for homemade versions or use cream of chicken soup if you prefer a different taste.
Broth: Beef broth provides a rich flavor, but chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used instead. If you’re in a pinch, water is fine too, though the flavor will be milder.
Onions: Sliced onions bring sweetness and depth. If you want more flavor, throw in some chopped shallots or leeks instead!
How Do You Get Perfectly Browned Pork Chops?
Browning the pork chops is key for locks in flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil or butter.
- Season the chops well with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Brown each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden. This step adds depth to the dish.
- If you’re short on time, you can put the chops straight into the crock pot without browning, but browning makes a big difference!
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)
- For the Soup Mixture:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of onion soup
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time. Once you’ve set everything up in the crock pot, let it cook—6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Perfect for a hassle-free meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Pork Chops:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. While it heats up, season your pork chops with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and brown each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are nice and golden. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but browning adds a lot of flavor!
2. Preparing the Crock Pot:
Now, grab your crock pot! Place the sliced onions at the bottom, creating a bed for the pork chops. Then, carefully layer the browned pork chops over the onions.
3. Making the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of onion soup, beef broth (or water), and minced garlic until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture will become the delicious sauce for your pork chops!
4. Combining Everything:
Pour the mixed soup evenly over the pork chops. If you’re using dried thyme, sprinkle that on top for extra flavor.
5. Cooking:
Cover the crock pot, set it to low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops will become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors from the soup and onions.
6. Serving:
Once they are cooked, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, then serve these tasty smothered pork chops over mashed potatoes or with your favorite side dishes like steamed vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but keep in mind they will cook faster than bone-in chops. Check for doneness at around 2-3 hours on high or 4-5 hours on low.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’d like to avoid cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just make sure to maintain the creamy texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Cool the leftovers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to the crock pot for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them along with the onions.
