ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions: How to Make Pork Chops That Melt in Your Mouth
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Season the pork chops: You can season the pork chops with a little salt and pepper if you like, but the ranch seasoning mix will provide most of the flavor. If you want extra flavor, feel free to sprinkle a small amount of the ranch seasoning directly on the pork chops before cooking.
- Brown the pork chops (optional but recommended): For an extra layer of flavor, you can brown the pork chops in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Simply heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. This step is optional but helps develop a richer flavor.
Step 2: Set Up the Slow Cooker
- Place the pork chops in the slow cooker: Arrange the pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker. If they don’t fit perfectly, you can overlap them slightly, as the slow cooker will cook them evenly.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup: Spread the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated. The creamy soup will melt down into the meat as it cooks, creating a rich sauce.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning: Add the entire packet of ranch dressing mix over the top of the pork chops and soup. You can adjust the amount if you want more or less flavor, but one packet is usually perfect for about 4 pork chops.
Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours: Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for 6-7 hours. The long cooking time is key to breaking down the meat and ensuring it becomes super tender and juicy. You can also cook it on high for 3-4 hours, but low and slow is always the best option for tender pork chops.
- Check for doneness: When the pork chops are done, they should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork. The sauce should be thick and creamy, enveloping the pork chops in a rich, savory layer.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve with sides: These melt-in-your-mouth pork chops go well with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The creamy sauce is perfect for spooning over potatoes or pasta for a complete meal.
- Enjoy: Serve the pork chops on a platter, spooning the creamy ranch-mushroom sauce over the top. Your guests (or family) will be wowed by how tender and flavorful these pork chops are.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Pork Chops
- Use thick-cut chops: Thicker pork chops (around 1-inch thick) work best in a slow cooker. Thin chops can become overcooked and dry, so aim for thicker cuts to retain moisture.
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in pork chops tend to have more flavor due to the bone, but boneless pork chops cook faster and are easier to serve. Both will work well in this recipe.
- Customize the sauce: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can swap it out for other cream soups like cream of chicken or cream of celery. You can also try using a homemade creamy sauce if you prefer to avoid canned products.
- Add veggies: For a one-pot meal, add some carrots, onions, or potatoes to the slow cooker along with the pork chops. They will cook alongside the pork and absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Don’t skip the browning step: While optional, browning the pork chops before slow cooking will give the dish a deeper, richer flavor. The Maillard reaction that occurs during browning creates extra depth in the final dish.
- Low and slow is key: For the best results, cook the pork chops on low heat for the full 6-7 hours. This will give the meat time to break down and become fork-tender. If you’re short on time, you can cook them on high, but low heat yields the best texture.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By combining just three ingredients—pork chops, cream of mushroom soup, and ranch seasoning mix—you get a meal that is rich in flavor and incredibly tender. The slow cooker works its magic by slowly cooking the pork chops in a creamy sauce, breaking down the fibers of the meat so it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
The ranch seasoning adds a punch of flavor, giving the pork chops an irresistible savory and tangy kick, while the cream of mushroom soup ensures the meat stays juicy and moist, creating a luscious sauce to drizzle over your sides.
This is the ultimate “set it and forget it” meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays, family gatherings, or when you want a comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful meal that delivers incredible tenderness and mouthwatering flavor, look no further than these slow cooker pork chops. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a rich, creamy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these pork chops will never disappoint.
ADVERTISEMENT
