Name: Crock Pot Pork Chops: Easy & Delicious Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 500 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 large onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 bay leaf; Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms; Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Crock Pot Pork Chops: the ultimate weeknight dinner solution! Are you tired of dry, flavorless pork chops? Do you dream of a meal that practically cooks itself while you tackle your busy day? Then look no further! This recipe transforms humble pork chops into a tender, juicy, and utterly delicious centerpiece for your dinner table.

Pork chops have been a staple in American households for generations, offering an affordable and versatile protein option. But let's be honest, achieving that perfect balance of tenderness and flavor can be tricky. That's where the magic of the slow cooker comes in. By gently braising the pork chops in a flavorful sauce, we unlock a depth of flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that's simply irresistible.

What makes these Crock Pot Pork Chops so beloved? It's the sheer convenience! Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and by evening, you'll be greeted with the aroma of a home-cooked meal. The slow cooking process ensures that the pork chops become incredibly tender, practically falling apart with each bite. Plus, the flavorful sauce, infused with herbs and spices, adds a richness that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success. Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying and effortless dinner!

Ingredients:

6 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 large onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 bay leaf
Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Pork Chops:

Okay, let's get started! First things first, we need to get those pork chops ready for their slow-cooking adventure. This involves a little bit of searing and seasoning to build up some flavor.

Pat the pork chops dry: This is a crucial step! Use paper towels to thoroughly dry each pork chop. This helps them get a nice sear in the next step. Wet pork chops will steam instead of sear, and we want that beautiful browning.
Season generously: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Mix it all together. Now, sprinkle this mixture generously over both sides of each pork chop. Don't be shy! We want every bite to be flavorful. Gently rub the seasoning into the meat to make sure it adheres well.
Sear the pork chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be nice and hot before adding the pork chops. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in batches. Sear each pork chop for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned. This step isn't about cooking them through; it's about developing a delicious crust and locking in the juices. Remove the seared pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

Building the Flavor Base in the Crock Pot:

Now that the pork chops are seared, we're going to create a flavorful bed in the crock pot for them to rest on. This involves layering the onions, garlic, and optional mushrooms to infuse the pork chops with even more deliciousness.

Sauté the onions and garlic (optional): In the same skillet you used to sear the pork chops (don't wipe it out – all those browned bits are flavor gold!), add the sliced onions. Sauté them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! If you're using mushrooms, add them to the skillet along with the onions and sauté until softened. This step adds a deeper layer of flavor, but if you're short on time, you can skip it and simply layer the raw onions and garlic in the crock pot.
Layer the bottom of the crock pot: Spread the sautéed onions (and garlic and mushrooms, if using) evenly over the bottom of the crock pot. This will create a flavorful cushion for the pork chops and prevent them from sticking.

Assembling and Cooking in the Crock Pot:

This is where the magic happens! We're going to layer the pork chops in the crock pot, add the sauce, and let the slow cooker do its thing. Get ready for some seriously tender and flavorful pork chops!

Arrange the pork chops: Place the seared pork chops on top of the onion mixture in the crock pot. Try to arrange them in a single layer if possible. If you have too many pork chops to fit in one layer, you can slightly overlap them.
Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This sauce will create a rich and savory gravy that will coat the pork chops as they cook.
Pour the sauce over the pork chops: Pour the sauce evenly over the pork chops in the crock pot. Make sure the pork chops are mostly covered in the sauce.
Add the bay leaf: Tuck the bay leaf into the sauce. The bay leaf will add a subtle but important layer of flavor to the dish.
Cook on low: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pork chops are very tender and easily shred with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pork chops and the strength of your crock pot, so check them after 6 hours and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cook on high (alternative): If you're short on time, you can cook the pork chops on high for 3-4 hours, or until they are tender. However, cooking on low will result in more tender and flavorful pork chops.

Serving and Enjoying:

The moment we've all been waiting for! It's time to serve up those delicious, fall-apart tender pork chops. Here are a few tips for serving and enjoying them to the fullest.

Remove the bay leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf from the crock pot.
Shred the pork (optional): If you prefer, you can shred the pork chops with two forks before serving. This is especially nice if you're serving them over mashed potatoes or rice.
Serve with your favorite sides: These crock pot pork chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Some of my favorites include mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, roasted vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, or broccoli), and a simple green salad.
Garnish (optional): Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pork chops for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy! Dig in and savor the deliciousness of these tender, flavorful crock pot pork chops. They're perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

Use different cuts of pork: While bone-in pork chops are my favorite for this recipe, you can also use boneless pork chops, pork loin, or even pork shoulder. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the cut of pork you use.
Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the crock pot along with the onions and garlic. Carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell peppers all work well.
Use different soups: If you're not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, or even a can of diced tomatoes.
Add a touch of sweetness: For a touch of sweetness, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the sauce.
Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Make it a one-pot meal: Add diced potatoes and carrots to the crock pot along with the pork chops for a complete one-pot meal.
Thicken the gravy: If you want a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and whisk it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Storage and Reheating:

Got leftovers? Lucky you! These crock pot pork chops are even better the next day. Here's how to store and reheat them:

Storage: Store the leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pork chops in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. To reheat in the microwave, simply place the pork chops and sauce in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through. To reheat on the stovetop, place the pork chops and sauce in a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. To reheat in the oven, place the pork chops and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through.

Conclusion:

This Crock Pot Pork Chops recipe is truly a game-changer, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a permanent spot in your regular meal rotation. Why? Because it delivers incredibly tender, flavorful pork chops with minimal effort. We're talking fall-off-the-bone deliciousness that practically melts in your mouth! Forget dry, tough pork chops forever. This slow cooker method ensures they stay juicy and succulent, infused with all the savory goodness of the gravy. It's the kind of comfort food that satisfies on a chilly evening, yet simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! While I've shared my go-to recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Comfort: Serve these tender pork chops over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious gravy. A side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus adds a touch of freshness. * Hearty and Rustic: For a more substantial meal, try serving the pork chops with buttered egg noodles or creamy polenta. Add some sautéed mushrooms and onions for an extra layer of flavor. * Southwestern Flair: Give your pork chops a Southwestern twist by adding a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies to the slow cooker. Serve with cornbread and a dollop of sour cream. * Mediterranean Delight: Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to the slow cooker. Serve with couscous or quinoa. * Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the gravy. * Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor profile. Rosemary, thyme, and sage all pair beautifully with pork. Add fresh herbs towards the end of the cooking time for the best flavor. * Vegetable Boost: Add some chopped vegetables to the slow cooker along with the pork chops. Carrots, potatoes, and celery are all great options. They'll cook alongside the pork and absorb all the flavorful juices. Don't be afraid to get creative and adapt this recipe to your own taste preferences. The possibilities are endless! I truly hope you give this Crock Pot Pork Chops recipe a try. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a family favorite. Once you experience the ease and deliciousness of slow cooker pork chops, you'll never want to make them any other way. And most importantly, I'd love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below. Let's create a community of pork chop enthusiasts and inspire each other with our culinary creations! Happy cooking!