What To Know
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Include a tablespoon or two of brown sugar or honey to the crock pot for a hint of sweetness.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Are you looking for a simple and satisfying dinner recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further than this classic crock pot recipe for pork chops in cream of mushroom soup. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time, and delivers mouthwatering results that will please even the pickiest eaters.
Why Crock Pot Pork Chops with Cream of Mushroom Soup is a Winner
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Easy Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients in the crock pot and let it do its magic. No need for constant monitoring or complicated steps.
- Flavorful and Tender: The cream of mushroom soup creates a rich and savory sauce that infuses the pork chops with incredible flavor, while the slow cooking process ensures they are incredibly tender.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices.
- Budget-Friendly: Pork chops and cream of mushroom soup are both affordable ingredients, making this a budget-friendly meal option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless pork chops, depending on your preference.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base of the sauce, so choose a high-quality soup for the best flavor.
- Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
- Dried Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or oregano are great additions for a more complex flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Preparation Steps: A Simple Guide
Follow these steps for a perfect crock pot pork chop meal:
1. Brown the Pork Chops: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the pork chops on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. This will create a delicious crust and lock in the juices.
2. Assemble the Crock Pot: Place the browned pork chops in the bottom of the crock pot. Add the onion, garlic, and dried herbs.
3. Add the Soup: Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the pork chops and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on Low: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the pork chops are cooked, use a fork to shred them into the sauce. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a green salad.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your pork chops are tender and flavorful:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Crock Pot: Make sure there’s enough space between the pork chops for even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F, use a meat thermometer.
- Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, add your favorite vegetables to the crock pot, such as carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or a simple green salad.
Variations for a Flavorful Twist
Want to add a little something extra to your pork chop recipe? Here are a few variations to try:
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: Include a tablespoon or two of brown sugar or honey to the crock pot for a hint of sweetness.
- Go Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Mix in Mushrooms: Slice some fresh mushrooms and add them to the crock pot along with the pork chops and soup.
- Use Different Soup: Experiment with different cream soups, such as cream of chicken, cream of celery, or cream of potato.
Let’s Talk About Serving and Storage
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, but it also makes for a great meal prep option. Here are some tips for serving and storing your crock pot pork chops:
- Serving Ideas: Serve your pork chops with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or a simple green salad. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
The End: A Delicious and Easy Dinner Solution
This recipe for crock pot pork chops in cream of mushroom soup is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a delicious dinner. With minimal effort and incredible flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, give this recipe a try!
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use frozen pork chops?
A: Yes, you can use frozen pork chops. Just make sure to thaw them completely before browning them in the skillet.
Q: Can I use a different type of soup?
A: Absolutely! You can experiment with other cream soups, such as cream of chicken, cream of celery, or cream of potato.
Q: How long can I keep the pork chops in the crock pot?
A: It’s best to cook the pork chops on low heat for 6-8 hours. However, you can cook them for up to 10 hours if needed.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the crock pot?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the crock pot along with the pork chops.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the ingredients in the crock pot and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just cook it on low heat for 6-8 hours the next day.
