What are the best pork chops to use for slow cooking?

For Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops, bone-in or boneless pork chops that are about 1 inch thick work best. Thicker chops help prevent drying out and become wonderfully tender.

Is searing the pork chops before slow cooking really necessary?

While you can skip searing if you're truly pressed for time, browning the pork chops beforehand adds a significant depth of flavor and a beautiful caramelized crust that truly enhances the final dish. It's highly recommended for the best results!

Can I make the gravy thicker if I prefer?

Yes, once the pork chops are cooked and removed, you can thicken the gravy. Whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the hot gravy in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.

What are good side dishes for Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops?

Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or egg noodles are classic choices that perfectly soak up the delicious gravy. Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh side salad also make excellent complements for a complete meal.

Ultimate Comfort: Tender Crock Pot Smothered Pork Chops

Description

Tender pork chops slow-cooked in a rich, savory mushroom and onion gravy, perfect for an easy and comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4-6 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Generously season both sides of your pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 3: Place the sliced onions and minced garlic in an even layer at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 4: Arrange the seared pork chops directly on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker.
Step 5: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, dried thyme, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder until smooth.
Step 6: Pour this creamy gravy mixture evenly over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
Step 7: Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 6-7 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender (internal temperature 145°F/63°C).
Step 8: Carefully remove the pork chops and serve hot, spooning plenty of the rich gravy over each one. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For an even richer gravy, consider using cream of chicken soup or a combination of both cream of mushroom and cream of chicken.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chop with gravy
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 90mg