Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at any grocery store. The magic truly happens when these simple components combine and slow cook to perfection.

• 6 medium thick boneless pork chops (ensure they are at least 1-inch thick for best results)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced into rings
• 10 oz can cream of mushroom with roasted garlic soup
• 10 oz can regular cream of mushroom soup
• ⅔ cup water
• 1 oz package dry ranch dressing mix
• 1 oz package dry onion soup mix
• A generous dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Insights & Substitutions:

• Pork Chops: While boneless pork chops are incredibly convenient for this dish, bone-in pork chops can also be used. Just be aware that bone-in varieties may require a slightly longer cooking time and will contribute an even richer flavor to the sauce. Opt for thicker cuts to prevent them from drying out during the extended cooking period.
• Onion: Slicing the onion into rings allows it to soften beautifully and infuse the entire dish with a subtle, sweet onion flavor as it slow cooks. Yellow or white onions are typically best for their balanced taste.
• Cream of Soups: The duo of cream of mushroom soups (regular and roasted garlic) forms the backbone of our incredibly rich and creamy sauce. If the roasted garlic version is unavailable, simply use two cans of regular cream of mushroom soup and consider adding a clove or two of minced fresh garlic for that extra depth.
• Dry Mixes: The dry ranch dressing mix and dry onion soup mix are the secret weapons here, providing an incredible burst of savory flavor without needing a whole spice rack. These mixes contain enough seasoning, so taste your sauce before adding extra salt.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing these slow cooker pork chops couldn’t be easier. Just a few minutes of prep in the morning, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, fork-tender dinner by evening. Follow these simple steps for a truly effortless meal.

1. Layer the Ingredients: Start by placing half of your thinly sliced onion rings evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker. This forms a flavorful base and helps prevent the pork chops from sticking. Next, arrange the boneless pork chops in a single layer over the onions. Distribute the remaining onion rings over the top of the pork chops.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the can of cream of mushroom with roasted garlic soup, the regular cream of mushroom soup, and the water. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until you have a smooth, well-blended mixture. This will create the luscious, savory gravy.
3. Season and Pour: Carefully pour the whisked soup mixture over the pork chops and onions in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well coated. Then, sprinkle both the dry ranch dressing mix and the dry onion soup mix generously over the entire surface of the dish. Finish with a dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your personal taste preference.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid tightly on your slow cooker. Cook the pork chops on the LOW setting for 5 to 6 hours. The key to truly tender and juicy pork chops is this low-and-slow cooking method, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become incredibly soft. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature. The pork chops should be easily shredded with a fork when perfectly cooked.
5. Serve and Savor: Once the cooking time is complete, your tender slow cooker pork chops are ready to be served! They are wonderfully versatile and pair magnificently with a variety of classic comfort sides such as fluffy egg noodles, perfectly steamed white rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. Be sure to spoon plenty of that rich, savory gravy over your chosen accompaniment for an unforgettable meal.

Expert Tips for the Most Delicious Pork Chops

• Avoid Overcrowding: For optimal and even cooking, arrange your pork chops in a single layer in the slow cooker. If you’re doubling the recipe or have many chops, consider using a larger slow cooker or cooking in batches.
• Browning for Depth (Optional): While this recipe is designed for ease, a quick sear of the pork chops in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side before slow cooking can add a beautiful caramelized crust and an extra layer of deep flavor.
• Temperature Consistency: Resist the urge to lift the slow cooker lid frequently. Each time the lid is opened, heat escapes, extending the cooking time and potentially impacting the tenderness of the pork.
• Adjusting Sauce Thickness: If you prefer an even thicker, richer gravy, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese can add luxurious creaminess.
• Adding Vegetables: Transform this into a complete one-pot meal by adding chopped root vegetables like carrots and potatoes alongside the onions at the beginning of the cooking process. Softer vegetables like peas or corn can be stirred in during the last 30 minutes.

Creative Variations to Spice Things Up

This recipe provides a fantastic base, but don’t hesitate to get creative and customize it to your family’s preferences:

• Tangy Twist: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice to the soup mixture for a bright, tangy note.
• Herbaceous Delight: Fresh herbs like finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or sage can be added to the sauce mixture for an aromatic boost.
• Smoky Flavor: A teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can impart a wonderful smoky undertone to the dish.
• Mushroom Mania: Sauté fresh sliced mushrooms with a bit of butter before adding them to the slow cooker for an intensified mushroom flavor and texture.
• Hearty & Sweet: A chopped apple or a few tablespoons of apple sauce can add a subtle sweetness that complements pork wonderfully.

What to Serve with These Delicious Slow Cooker Pork Chops

The rich, creamy sauce and tender pork chops make a versatile main course that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of our top recommendations to complete your meal:

• Classic Carbohydrates: Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or buttery egg noodles are excellent choices for soaking up every drop of the savory gravy.
• Healthy Greens: A simple steamed green vegetable like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans provides a fresh contrast and added nutrients.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes can be cooked separately and served alongside for a rustic touch.
• Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a warm, crusty baguette or dinner rolls to mop up any remaining delicious sauce!
• Light Salad: A crisp side salad with a vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen pork chops directly in the slow cooker?

For food safety and to ensure even cooking, it is always recommended to thaw pork chops completely in the refrigerator before placing them in the slow cooker. Cooking from frozen can cause the meat to spend too much time in the “danger zone” temperature and may result in unevenly cooked pork.

How do I prevent my pork chops from drying out during slow cooking?

Several factors contribute to juicy pork chops:

• Use thick-cut pork chops (1 to 1.5 inches thick) as they are less prone to drying out.
• Ensure there is sufficient liquid in the slow cooker, which this recipe provides with the creamy soup base.
• Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as each time heat and moisture escape, prolonging cooking and increasing the risk of dryness.
• Cook on the LOW setting for the recommended time. High heat can sometimes dry out pork faster.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can chop the onions and mix the soup ingredients the night before and store them separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply combine everything in the slow cooker and begin cooking. Cooked leftovers are also fantastic the next day!

Is it possible to double or halve this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe, provided your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the ingredients without exceeding the fill line or overcrowding the pork chops. You might need to add a small amount of extra water (about ¼ cup) and potentially increase the cooking time by an additional hour or two on the LOW setting. Halving the recipe is also straightforward, just adjust ingredient quantities proportionally.

What if I don’t have dry ranch dressing mix or dry onion soup mix?

While these mixes offer convenient and potent flavor, you can create a similar savory profile with individual spices. For a ranch substitute, combine dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. For an onion soup mix alternative, a blend of dried minced onion, beef bouillon granules, and a touch of celery salt can work in a pinch.

How can I make the sauce even thicker?

For an even richer and thicker sauce, after the pork chops are cooked, you can remove them from the slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the hot sauce in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.