There’s nothing quite as satisfying as coming home to a warm, hearty meal after a long day. Imagine the smell of tender pork chops infused with the tangy flavor of ranch seasoning filling your kitchen. That’s exactly what you get when you make slow cooker ranch pork chops. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that packs a punch of flavor. If you love easy dinners with minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for you!
Why Slow Cooker Ranch Pork Chops?
Why choose this recipe for your next meal? Because it combines simplicity with a delicious payoff. Using a slow cooker means you don’t need to stand over the stove or spend hours in the kitchen. Simply set it and forget it. Plus, the ranch seasoning gives these pork chops an amazing flavor that’s rich, creamy, and savory.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make ranch pork chops in a slow cooker:
- 4 boneless pork chops (1 inch thick)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
You can also add extra seasoning like onion powder or paprika for a bit more flavor. This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to experiment with your preferred herbs and spices.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow Cooker Ranch Pork Chops
Ready to make these delicious crockpot ranch pork chops? Let’s break it down step by step:
- Prep Your Pork Chops
Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Give them a good rub to ensure the seasoning sticks. - Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth. This mixture will create a creamy, tangy sauce that will keep your pork chops moist during cooking. - Layer in the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned pork chops into the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the ranch sauce over the top, ensuring all the pork chops are covered. - Set It and Forget It
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be fork-tender when done. - Finishing Touch
Once the cooking time is up, you can stir the sauce to make sure it’s well mixed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the pork chops and let the sauce simmer with the lid off for an additional 15 minutes. You could also thicken it with a cornstarch slurry.
How Long to Cook Ranch Pork Chops in a Slow Cooker
One of the best parts about slow cooking is that it’s nearly foolproof. Cooking these slow cooked ranch pork chops on low for 6-7 hours ensures tender, juicy meat that falls apart easily. If you’re in a rush, cooking them on high for 3-4 hours will still give you a fantastic result. However, the low and slow method yields the best texture and flavor.
Variations and Add-Ins
Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some optional add-ins to enhance your slow cooker ranch pork chops:
- Potatoes: Throw in some baby potatoes or diced russet potatoes for a full meal in one pot.
- Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or mushrooms can add a nice texture and make the dish heartier.
- Cheese: For an extra creamy finish, stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan in the last hour of cooking.
These simple variations allow you to tailor the dish to your family’s preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ranch Pork Chops
These pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the ranch sauce.
- Rice: Serve over a bed of white or brown rice for a light, filling side.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roast some broccoli, carrots, or asparagus in the oven while the pork chops cook.
- Dinner Rolls: A soft, buttery roll will complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
No matter what you serve with your ranch pork chops in slow cooker, you’re in for a comforting and hearty meal.
Nutritional Information
If you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown of these slow cooker ranch pork chops, here’s a rough estimate:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 12g
This is an ideal dinner for those looking for a protein-rich meal without a ton of carbs.
Why Slow Cooking is Perfect for Pork Chops
If you’ve ever cooked pork chops on the stovetop, you know how easy it is to end up with dry, overcooked meat. Slow cooking solves that problem by gently cooking the pork over several hours, allowing it to retain moisture and absorb the flavors of the sauce. It’s practically impossible to overcook pork chops in a slow cooker as long as you follow the time guidelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some tips to ensure your slow cooker ranch pork chops turn out perfect every time:
- Don’t skip the seasoning: While ranch seasoning is the star of the show, be sure to season the pork chops with salt and pepper as well.
- Avoid overcooking: While slow cooking is forgiving, leaving pork chops in the slow cooker for too long can make them mushy.
- Use a thickener if needed: If you like a thicker sauce, don’t hesitate to add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
Conclusion
Making slow cooker ranch pork chops is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. The pork chops are tender and flavorful, while the creamy ranch sauce makes it a meal the whole family will love. Best of all, it takes just a few minutes to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones while dinner cooks itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly. Bone-in pork chops may need an extra hour in the slow cooker. - Can I freeze slow cooker ranch pork chops?
Yes, leftovers freeze well. Just store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - Can I use a different type of meat?
Sure! Chicken breasts or thighs work great with this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. - What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cream soup and substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative. - What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can make your own ranch seasoning by mixing garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley. - How do I prevent the pork chops from drying out?
Cooking them on low for the recommended time and ensuring they’re covered with the sauce will keep them moist. - Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, vegetables like carrots, green beans, and mushrooms make great additions.
For more easy, flavorful recipes, check out this guide on smoked BBQ chicken thighs!