Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops: A Comforting and Flavorful Slow Cooker Meal

A Simple Recipe for Fall-Off-The-Bone Tender Pork Chops

Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops are the epitome of comfort food. This recipe takes the simplicity of slow cooking and combines it with a rich, flavorful gravy to create a truly satisfying meal. Bone-in pork chops are seasoned and then simmered in a mixture of onion soup mix, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth, resulting in incredibly tender, flavorful meat. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or any time you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal without a lot of fuss. They are also great for family meals and potlucks.

A Recipe That Turns Everyday Ingredients into a Special Meal

I first made these Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops on a day when I was short on time but wanted to create something special for dinner. I had some pork chops in the fridge and a few pantry staples, and I remembered a recipe my mom used to make that involved slow-cooking meat in a creamy sauce. I adapted that idea, using onion soup mix and cream of chicken soup for convenience, and the result was amazing. The pork chops were incredibly tender, and the gravy was rich and flavorful. It was a simple meal, but it felt like a special occasion. These smothered pork chops have become a regular in my dinner rotation, a recipe I turn to when I need a comforting and delicious meal without a lot of effort. I love that I can just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic.

Ingredient Insights: Choosing the Right Ingredients for Tenderness and Flavor

The success of this recipe lies in the combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bone-In Pork Chops (4): The star of the show, providing a rich and savory flavor.
  • Why Bone-In: Bone-in pork chops are recommended for this recipe because the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.
  • Tip: Look for pork chops that are about ¾ to 1 inch thick.
  • Alternative: You can use boneless pork chops, but they may cook faster and be slightly less flavorful.
• Onion Soup Mix (1 oz packet): A convenient shortcut that adds a savory, oniony flavor to the gravy.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups): Forms the base of the gravy, providing moisture and flavor.
  • Tip: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can): Adds creaminess and a rich, savory flavor to the gravy.
  • Tip: You can also use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
• Dry Pork Gravy Mix (1 oz packet): Enhances the gravy’s flavor and helps thicken it.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the pork and other seasonings.
• Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Used to thicken the gravy at the end of the cooking process.
• Cold Water (3 tablespoons): Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry, preventing lumps when added to the hot gravy.

Essential Equipment: Slow Cooker and Basic Kitchen Tools

• Slow Cooker (5-6 quart): The essential appliance for this recipe, allowing for hands-off cooking and tender pork chops.
• Whisk: For combining the gravy ingredients and making the cornstarch slurry.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the cornstarch slurry.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops

Ingredients with Measurements

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 1 oz onion soup mix packet
• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (low sodium)
• 1 oz dry pork gravy mix packet
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Gravy Mixture: Creating a Flavorful Base

1. Combine Ingredients: In a 5-6 quart slow cooker, whisk together the onion soup mix packet, low-sodium chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and dry pork gravy mix packet.
2. Whisk Until Smooth: Whisk the ingredients until they are well combined and the mixture is smooth, with no lumps.

2. Season and Add the Pork Chops: Infusing with Flavor

1. Season Pork Chops: Season both sides of the bone-in pork chops with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Tip: Use about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper per side, or adjust to your taste.
2. Place in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned pork chops into the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed and submerged in the gravy mixture as much as possible.

3. Slow Cook the Pork Chops: Achieving Tenderness

1. Cover and Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cooking Time: Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
   • Check for Doneness: The pork chops are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.

4. Thicken the Gravy: Creating a Rich and Creamy Sauce

1. Make Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of cornstarch and 3 tablespoons of cold water until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and no lumps remain.
2. Add Slurry to Slow Cooker: About 30 minutes before serving, stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker.
3. Increase Heat (Optional): If cooking on low, you can switch the slow cooker to high for the last 30 minutes to help thicken the gravy more quickly.
4. Stir and Cook: Stir the gravy and cook, uncovered, for the remaining 30 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.

5. Serve and Enjoy: The Finishing Touches

1. Serve Hot: Serve the Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops hot, generously spooning the thickened gravy over the top.
2. Suggested Sides: These pork chops pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, steamed rice, or your favorite vegetables.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Success

• Pork Chops Tough:
  • Problem: The pork chops are tough and not tender.
  • Solutions: Make sure you’re using bone-in pork chops for this recipe. Cook them low and slow for the recommended time.
• Gravy Too Thin:
  • Problem: The gravy is too thin and watery.
  • Solutions: Make sure you’ve added the cornstarch slurry and allowed it to cook for at least 30 minutes. You can also simmer the gravy uncovered for a few minutes to reduce it further.
• Gravy Too Thick:
  • Problem: The gravy is too thick.
  • Solutions: Add a little more chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
• Dish Too Salty:
  • Problem: The overall dish is too salty.
  • Solutions: Use low sodium ingredients when possible.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Smothered Pork Chops

• Add Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients for an earthy flavor.
• Caramelized Onions: Caramelize the onions in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a little heat.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as fresh or dried rosemary or sage.
• Cream of Mushroom: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
• Use a Pork Loin: While this recipe calls for bone-in chops, you could use a pork loin roast and shred it after cooking.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

• Weeknight Dinner: A perfect, easy meal for busy weeknights.
• Family Meal: A comforting and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.
• Potlucks: Easy to transport and always a popular choice.
• Comfort Food: The ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening.

Pairing Recommendations: Drinks and Sides

• Drinks:
  • Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea is a refreshing choice.
  • Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade complements the richness of the gravy.
  • Apple Cider: A great option for a fall or winter meal.
  • White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like a Pinot Grigio would pair well.
• Sides:
  • Mashed Potatoes: A classic and comforting pairing for smothered pork chops.
  • Buttered Noodles: Egg noodles or other pasta shapes are great for soaking up the gravy.
  • Steamed Rice: A simple and versatile side dish.
  • Green Beans: A fresh and healthy side.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts would be delicious.
  • Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread provides a nice contrast to the savory flavors.

Nutritional Information: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal

Per serving (approximate, will vary based on size and specific ingredients): Calories: 400-450, Fat: 20-25g, Carbohydrates: 15-20g, Protein: 30-35g. (Note: This is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used).

Print

Your Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chop Questions Answered

• Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
  • A: Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but they may cook faster and be slightly less flavorful. Reduce the cooking time and check for doneness earlier.
• Q: Can I make this on the stovetop?
  • A: Yes, you can make it on the stovetop. Brown the pork chops in a large pot or Dutch oven, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer, covered, for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the pork chops are tender.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?
  • A: Store leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Q: Can I freeze this dish?
  • A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops and gravy for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Q: What if I don’t have onion soup mix?
  • A: You can substitute with 1 teaspoon of onion powder and 1 teaspoon of beef bouillon granules.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cream soup?
  • A: Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
  • A: Yes, you can add sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, or other vegetables to the slow cooker.
• Q: Can I make this spicier?
  • A: Yes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for extra heat.
• Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
  • A: Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave, until heated through.
• Q: What’s the best way to thicken the gravy?
  • A: Make sure to use the cornstarch slurry as directed in the recipe.
• Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• A: Yes, you can make it ahead.
• Q: Can I use a different cut of pork?
• A: While bone-in chops are recommended, you can use other cuts of pork suitable for slow cooking, such as pork shoulder or pork loin. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
• A: Yes, you can use fresh herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs called for in the recipe.