These Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops are simple and oh-so-tasty! Just toss the pork chops in the slow cooker with ranch seasoning and let them cook low and slow.
The best part? The chops turn out juicy and packed with flavor without much fuss. I love serving them with mashed potatoes—you can’t go wrong with that combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are my favorite for this recipe because they stay nice and juicy during cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops or even pork loin can work too, but keep an eye on the cooking time.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is what gives the dish its amazing flavor. If you’re out of ranch seasoning, try using a mix of dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder for a similar taste, or make your own from scratch.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. If you’re avoiding cream-based soups, try a homemade white sauce or use a pureed vegetable like cauliflower for a healthier alternative. You could also swap it with cream of celery or cream of chicken.
Chicken Broth: It helps keep the dish moist and adds flavor. If you’re looking for a lower sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth. Water with a pinch of salt can be used as a last resort.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Searing?
Searing the pork chops before adding them to the slow cooker isn’t mandatory, but it really brings out the flavor! Here’s how you can do it:
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Season the pork chops lightly with salt and pepper. This helps form a delicious crust.
- Place the chops in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to achieve a nice sear.
Once seared, transfer them to the slow cooker to finish cooking. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor this simple step adds to the final dish!
Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Ranch Mixture:
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare (including searing the pork chops) and then you’ll need to let the crock pot do the work for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. So, it’s perfect for a busy day—just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Pork Chops:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Take your pork chops and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Sear each side of the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown. This adds a wonderful flavor and color!
2. Making the Ranch Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, minced garlic, dried parsley, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will be your delicious sauce!
3. Layering in the Crock Pot:
Now it’s time to assemble! Place the seared pork chops in the bottom of your Crock Pot in a single layer. Pour the ranch mixture over them, making sure each chop is mostly covered.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the Crock Pot with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. You’ll know they are done when the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
5. Serving:
Once cooked, carefully transfer the pork chops to serving plates. Give the sauce in the Crock Pot a stir to combine it well, then spoon it generously over the chops. This sauce is creamy and packed with flavor!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Pork Chops with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, or even rice. Enjoy your meal—it’s sure to be a hit!
This recipe delivers juicy pork chops infused with savory ranch flavor and a creamy herb sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but it’s best to thaw them first. For quick thawing, place the frozen chops in a sealed plastic bag and soak in cold water for about 30 minutes. Cooking times may need some adjustment, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you want to avoid cream-based soups, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Alternatively, pureeing cooked cauliflower as a substitute adds creaminess without the soup.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the chops moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ranch mixture and sear the pork chops a day ahead. Just layer everything in the Crock Pot and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Cook on the same schedule as the original recipe!