These creamy ranch slow cooker pork chops are a total lifesaver for busy days! Tender pork chops swim in a tasty ranch sauce, making each bite so yummy and comforting.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist the smell wafting from the kitchen while they cook slowly. I love to serve them with mashed potatoes—perfect for soaking up that creamy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are ideal here for easy eating. If you need a leaner option, you could swap them for chicken breasts, though you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is where a lot of the flavor comes from! If you prefer homemade, mix together dried herbs like dill, parsley, chives, and garlic powder to create your custom blend.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This recipe uses canned soup for convenience, but if you want to keep it fresh, you can make your own from scratch. You can also substitute with cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce if you prefer!
Sour Cream: Sour cream provides creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a good swap for a lighter option, but check if it fits your flavor preference.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth; feel free to use vegetable broth for a lighter version or to fit dietary needs.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Tender?
To achieve tender pork chops, it really boils down to low and slow cooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Season well! This sets the flavor foundation. Don’t rush this step.
- Searing the pork chops is optional, but don’t skip it if you want extra flavor. Cook them until golden, just a couple of minutes on each side.
- Cooking on low for 6-7 hours allows the meat to break down and become tender. If short on time, high for 3-4 hours works, too, but keep an eye out!
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
Following these steps will lead to juicy, flavorful pork chops that are sure to please!
Creamy Ranch Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and between 6-7 hours of cooking on low (or 3-4 hours on high). It’s perfect for a day when you want to set it and forget it until mealtime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops on both sides. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly to ensure full flavor. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it makes all the difference!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until they get a nice golden-brown color. This step is optional, but it adds a delicious depth of flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can skip it and go straight to the slow cooker!
3. Prepare the Creamy Ranch Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning mix, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. This sauce is where all the rich flavor comes from!
4. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seared (or unseared) pork chops into the slow cooker in a single layer. Then, pour the creamy ranch sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated.
5. Cook the Pork Chops:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops are done when they’re tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The longer, slower cooking creates wonderfully juicy pork chops!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, gently stir the sauce before serving, spooning it generously over the pork chops. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like! Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Enjoy your tender, creamy ranch pork chops! They’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Ranch Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but make sure to thaw them completely first for even cooking. Ideally, thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting. Cooking from frozen is not recommended in a slow cooker due to safety concerns.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Sour Cream?
Absolutely! If you want to skip the sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture, or use additional cream of mushroom soup. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce appears too thick.
What Should I Serve with These Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them with a green salad for a lighter side. The creamy sauce is perfect for drizzling over any of these options!
