Get ready for super tender pork chops cooked to perfection in your Crock Pot! With a creamy ranch sauce, these chops are packed with flavor and so easy to make.
I love coming home to the smell of dinner already done! Just throw in the chops, add the ranch dressing, and let your slow cooker work its magic. Perfect with rice or veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops bring great flavor and tenderness to the dish. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chops can work too, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the star ingredient! If you don’t have it, you can mix your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and chives, plus some garlic and onion powder. You’ll still get that ranch flavor!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess, but you can swap it for cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce for a different taste. For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. Vegetable broth is a good substitute if you prefer a vegetarian option, though it’ll change the flavor slightly.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Tender Pork Chops in a Crock Pot?
The key to tender pork chops lies in low, slow cooking. Here’s how to nail it:
- Season well: Seasoning the pork chops adds flavor right from the start.
- Sear the chops: Searing helps develop flavor through browning. If you’re in a hurry, skip this step, but know it adds depth.
- Add the sauce: Pour the ranch sauce over the chops evenly for great coverage.
- Cook low and slow: Let the crock pot do its magic. Low heat ensures the pork chops cook gently, making them tender and juicy.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a cooking time of 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the Crock Pot. It’s super simple—just season, sear, mix, and let it cook. You’ll love the delightful aroma filling your home while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning your pork chops on both sides with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and optional garlic and onion powder. This adds great flavor straight to the meat for a tasty dish!
2. Sear the Chops (Optional):
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear each pork chop for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re browned. This step brings out a lovely flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and sour cream. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This sauce is what makes the dish so delicious!
4. Prepare the Crock Pot:
Place the pork chops in the crock pot in a single layer. Make sure they fit snugly, as this helps them cook evenly.
5. Add the Sauce:
Pour the ranch sauce mixture over the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly coated for that rich flavor all around.
6. Cook:
Cover the Crock Pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The pork chops are ready when they are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
7. Serve with a Garnish:
When ready to serve, spoon some of the sauce over each pork chop and sprinkle with fresh or dried parsley for a lovely touch!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve these flavorful pork chops hot, paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s made effortlessly with your Crock Pot!
Enjoy tender, flavorful pork chops with creamy ranch sauce made effortlessly in your slow cooker!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster and could potentially dry out. Check for doneness at around 2.5 to 3.5 hours on high, or 5 to 6 hours on low.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce for a lighter option. Greek yogurt mixed with some broth can also work for a healthier twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
What Sides Pair Well with Ranch Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast! Enjoy with your favorite sides!