Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort meals: Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops! There’s just something magical about coming home after a long day and having your house smell like a warm hug, all thanks to this luscious meal simmering away in the background. The tender pork chops, smothered in a savory mushroom sauce, pair perfectly with a scoop of mashed potatoes or a side of fluffy rice. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a weeknight staple in your home too!
I remember the first time I made this dish. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I wanted to create something hearty and satisfying without spending the entire day in the kitchen. I threw everything into the crock pot, went out for a stroll, and when I returned, I felt like a gourmet chef! The whole house smelled divine, and my family was eagerly awaiting dinner. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love cooking. Now, let’s dive into what goes into this drool-worthy recipe!
What’s in Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops?
Boneless Pork Chops: These are the stars of the show! Boneless makes them tender and easy to eat, perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned beauty is what makes the sauce creamy and dreamy. It’s the secret ingredient that brings everything together! I usually go for the low-fat version to keep things a tad lighter.
Beef Broth: It adds depth to the flavor profile of our sauce. I always reach for low-sodium broth because I like to control how salty my dish is.
Sliced Mushrooms: Freshly sliced or canned, mushrooms add that hearty umami flavor that complements the pork. I love using baby bella mushrooms for their rich taste.
Onion: Sliced and full of flavor, onion is a non-negotiable in this recipe. It adds sweetness and richness to the dish as it cooks down in the crock pot.
Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Dried Thyme, Paprika: A sprinkle of these versatile seasonings enhances the flavor of the pork chops beautifully, making each bite burst with taste.
Salt and Pepper: A pinch here and there enhances the overall flavor. Always, always trust your taste buds.
Olive Oil: This is what you’ll use for browning the pork chops to get that lovely crust and extra flavor!
Fresh Parsley: This is for garnish! Not only does it add color, but it also brings a fresh pop of flavor.
Is Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops Good for You?
Oh, let’s discuss the nutritional side of this hearty dish. While it’s a comfort food, I like to enjoy it mindfully!
Boneless Pork Chops: A fantastic source of protein, they can help keep you feeling satisfied and full. Opt for lean cuts to keep the fat content down.
Mushrooms: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, mushrooms are a wonderful addition that can help boost your immunity. Who doesn’t want that?
Onions: They add flavor and are rich in vitamins and fiber. Plus, they can help support heart health!
On the flip side, the use of cream of mushroom soup can be higher in sodium and preservatives if you don’t opt for the healthier versions. However, the ease of this recipe and the ability to control ingredients makes it an excellent choice for busy nights!
Ingredients List
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 package (8 oz) sliced mushrooms
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves:* 4
How to Make Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops?
1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While it heats, season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. We want to pack in that flavor!
2. Once the oil is hot, brown the pork chops in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are a lovely golden brown. This step enhances the flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, you can skip it!
3. Transfer the browned pork chops to the crock pot. That’s where the magic will happen.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sliced mushrooms, sliced onion, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this creamy goodness all over the pork chops in the crock pot.
5. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I recommend the low-and-slow method for the most tender results!
6. Once cooked, plate up your pork chops and ladle that rich mushroom sauce over the top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice – you’ll want something to soak up that amazing sauce.
Serving Suggestions & Fun Tips
You know how I love a good tip! If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), these chops make a delicious addition to a sandwich or wrap the next day. Just slice them up and have a party in your mouth!
Feel free to toss in other veggies, like carrots or green beans, for extra nutrition. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of white wine to the broth for a little zing.
Now, who’s ready to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal? I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! Let me know how it turns out – I’m sure you’ll be hooked just like I am!
