These creamy ranch slow cooker pork chops are a dream! The pork chops become super tender, drenched in a tasty ranch sauce that’s so easy to make. Just toss everything in your slow cooker!
I love coming home to a warm meal ready to eat. Plus, the aroma while it cooks is enough to make my mouth water. Serve it with rice or veggies for a complete meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are great for this dish because they stay juicy. If you prefer bone-in chops, those work too! You might also use chicken breasts or thighs if you want a different protein.
Ranch Seasoning: The packet of ranch seasoning is key for flavor! If you don’t have a packet, you can mix your own with herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. Homemade ranch mix adds a nice touch!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you want a healthier option, consider using a low-fat or reduced-sodium version. You could also swap it for cream of chicken soup if you prefer that flavor.
Sour Cream: It adds richness to the sauce. You can replace it with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just make sure to add it toward the end of cooking so it doesn’t curdle!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Pork Chops?
To ensure your pork chops turn out tender, follow these steps:
- Season well: Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance flavor.
- Sear the chops: Searing them for a few minutes on each side creates a lovely flavor crust, but it’s okay to skip this if you’re short on time.
- Low and slow: Cooking on low for 6-7 hours allows the meat to become tender and absorb the sauce’s flavor. If you’re in a hurry, cooking on high for 3-4 hours is fine too.
Finally, resist the urge to peek while it cooks! Keeping the lid on traps heat and moisture, helping to cook the pork perfectly.
Creamy Ranch Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 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
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. After that, it cooks in the slow cooker for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, giving you tender, flavorful pork chops! Just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning your pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides. This adds great flavor throughout the dish!
2. Sear the Pork Chops (Optional):
If you have time, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each pork chop for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step is optional but really enhances the flavor!
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until it’s smooth and creamy. This will become the delicious sauce that makes the chops so flavorful!
4. Slow Cooking Time!
Place the seared pork chops in the slow cooker in a single layer. Then, pour the creamy ranch sauce mixture evenly over the top of the pork chops.
5. Cover and Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The meat will become tender and soak up all the flavor of the sauce.
6. Final Touches:
Once it’s done cooking, gently stir the sauce to combine everything. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pork chops topped with the creamy ranch sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color if you like. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies!
This recipe creates tender, flavorful pork chops in a rich and creamy ranch sauce, making it perfect for an easy and satisfying slow cooker meal!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the pork chops before cooking for even cooking. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of submerging them in cold water while still sealed in a bag.
What Can I Substitute for the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade cream sauce. Just make sure it’s creamy for the right consistency!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the creamy ranch sauce for some extra heat, according to your spice preference.
