These creamy ranch slow cooker pork chops are super easy to make and absolutely delicious. The pork chops become tender while soaking up all the rich ranch flavor!
I love tossing everything in the slow cooker and letting it do its magic. It’s like I have my own little chef in the kitchen! Perfect for busy days! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops work best for flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless chops, you can use those instead, but cook them for a slightly shorter time. A good choice is to look for chops that are at least 1 inch thick!
Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning is what really packs in the flavor. If you’re out or want a healthier option, you can mix your own using dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder. This gives you control over the ingredients!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free, try using a can of coconut cream or homemade mushroom sauce. For a lighter option, low-fat cream of mushroom soup works just as well!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute; it still gives that creamy texture but with extra protein. You could also use a dairy-free yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops before putting them in the slow cooker really enhances their flavor. Here’s how to do it well:
- Heat oil in your skillet until it’s hot but not smoking. This helps the chops brown nicely without drying out.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear just a few chops at a time to get that golden brown crust!
- Let them rest for a moment after searing; this keeps the juices locked in when they cook in the slow cooker.
Whether you sear or not, remember that slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. So, take your time and enjoy the process!
How to Make Creamy Ranch Slow Cooker Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- For the Sauce:
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 6-7 hours for slow cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for starting earlier in the day and coming home to a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This adds extra flavor! If you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step, but searing really makes a difference.
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and black pepper until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the delicious sauce that bathes your pork chops!
3. Arrange in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seared (or unseared) pork chops in the slow cooker in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd them, so they cook evenly.
4. Pour Over the Sauce:
Carefully pour the creamy ranch mixture over the pork chops, ensuring they are all covered. This will ensure they remain moist and flavorful while cooking!
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops will be tender and nicely cooked when done. Make sure their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the pork chops are cooked, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and set them aside on a plate. Stir the sauce in the slow cooker. If you find it’s too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by cooking on high with the lid off for 10-15 minutes or adding a slurry of cornstarch and water.
7. Serve:
Serve the pork chops topped with the creamy ranch sauce. For a touch of freshness, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley if you’d like!
These creamy ranch slow cooker pork chops are sure to be a hit with your family. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be aware that they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness at around 3 hours on high or 5 hours on low.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade mushroom sauce or a dairy-free coconut cream. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Can I Freeze the Pork Chops?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked pork chops in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
