Slow Cooker Pork Chops Recipe

Pork chops: Choose bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference.

Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the dish.

Cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy base for the sauce.

Ranch seasoning mix: Provides a tangy and herby flavor.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.

Onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with a hint of onion.

Salt: Seasons the pork chops.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dish.

To ensure your pork chops remain juicy and flavorful, sear them in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side before placing them in the slow cooker. This step caramelizes the surface, locking in the juices and adding a deeper flavor to the final dish.

• pork chops - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a good alternative for slow cooking.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar depth of flavor and is a good option for those avoiding meat products.

• cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of chicken soup: Cream of chicken soup offers a similar creamy texture and savory flavor.

• ranch seasoning mix - Substitute with Italian seasoning mix: Italian seasoning mix provides a different but complementary flavor profile that works well with the other ingredients.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a more robust and aromatic flavor.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions offer a fresh and slightly sweet flavor that enhances the dish.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and a different flavor dimension to the dish.

• Allow the pork chops to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.

• Transfer the pork chops and any remaining sauce to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a piece of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the pork chops within 3-4 days. Make sure the refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or below to maintain freshness.

• For longer storage, place the pork chops in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

• When ready to reheat, thaw frozen pork chops in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the meat.

• Reheat the pork chops in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, covered, in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

• Serve the reheated pork chops with fresh vegetables or your favorite sides to recreate the original meal experience.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the pork chops in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Use a microwave-safe dish to reheat the pork chops. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Reheat on the stovetop by placing the pork chops in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place the pork chops in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't dry out.
• For a slow cooker, place the pork chops back in the slow cooker with a bit of chicken broth or cream of mushroom soup. Set to warm or low for about 1-2 hours until heated through.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used to simmer at a lower temperature than other cooking methods.

• Mixing bowl: A bowl used to mix ingredients together.

• Measuring cup: A cup used to measure liquid ingredients like chicken broth.

• Measuring spoons: Spoons used to measure small quantities of ingredients like garlic powder and onion powder.

• Whisk: A kitchen utensil used to blend ingredients smoothly.

• Tongs: A tool used to handle and place the pork chops in the slow cooker.

• Cutting board: A durable board on which to place ingredients for cutting.

• Knife: A tool used to cut or trim any excess fat from the pork chops.

• Serving spoon: A large spoon used to serve the cooked pork chops and sauce.

• Plates: Dishes used to serve the final dish.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and onion powder the night before to save time in the morning.

Use boneless chops: Boneless pork chops cook faster and more evenly, reducing overall cooking time.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra pork chops with sauce for a quick meal later.

Pre-season the meat: Season the pork chops with salt and pepper the night before to let the flavors penetrate better.

Use a liner: Slow cooker liners make cleanup quick and easy, saving you time after cooking.