These tender smothered pork chops cooked in a crock pot are pure comfort food! They simmer in a rich, tasty sauce that makes everything super juicy and flavorful.
I love how easy they are to make—just season, place in the pot, and let it work its magic! Perfect for busy days when you want a cozy meal waiting at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I usually use bone-in pork chops for their flavor and juiciness, but boneless works just as well. If pork isn’t available, try using chicken thighs instead; they will also become tender in the slow cooker.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is a key flavor component. If you want a lighter option, you can use homemade mushroom soup or a dairy-free version if you have dietary restrictions. Cream of celery or cream of chicken can be good substitutes too!
Broth: I prefer beef broth for a richer taste, but chicken broth or vegetable broth would work fine. If you’re low on broth, mixing water with a bouillon cube can also do the trick.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best, but if you’re in a rush, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. Just be mindful of the quantities—start with about 1 teaspoon of each.
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Tender?
The key to tender pork chops lies in cooking them low and slow. The crock pot does this wonderfully! Here are a few tips:
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure they get a nice browning.
- Browning them in a skillet adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip this step if you can help it!
- Don’t rush the cooking time. Let them go for the full 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
- If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer; pork is done at 145°F.
Tender Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 to 6 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
For the Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth or chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
For Preparation:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for browning)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to cook in the crock pot. By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have delicious, tender pork chops waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Next, season both sides of the chops with salt, black pepper, and paprika for a flavorful kick.
2. Brown the Chops:
In a skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned pork chops and brown each side for about 2-3 minutes until they look golden brown. Once they are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the beef or chicken broth until it’s smooth. Stir in the dried thyme for added flavor.
5. Combine in the Crock Pot:
Place the browned pork chops in the crock pot. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chops, and then top with the cooked onions and garlic.
6. Cook the Pork Chops:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and fully cooked through.
7. Optional Gravy Thickening:
If you like a thicker gravy, carefully remove the pork chops from the crock pot after they are done cooking. Mix the flour with a small amount of water to make a slurry, stir this into the sauce in the crock pot, and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened. Return the chops to the sauce to warm them through.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley. These delicious pork chops go great over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Enjoy your cozy meal!
FAQ About Tender Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops! However, it’s recommended to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can also cook them from frozen, just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. A mixture of sour cream and mushroom broth can also work for a lighter option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove. You can add a splash of broth to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick during reheating.
Can I Cook This Dish on the Stove Instead?
Certainly! To make it on the stovetop, brown the pork chops in a skillet, then add everything to a pot, cover, and let it simmer on low for about 40-50 minutes until the pork is tender. Just keep an eye to ensure it doesn’t dry out!
