These creamy ranch pork chops are a joy to make! Just toss your pork chops into the slow cooker with ranch seasoning and cream, and let it work its magic.
I love how tender and flavorful the pork comes out—perfect for busy days! Pair it with some mashed potatoes or rice, and you have a cozy meal ready without any fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are a great choice for flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find them, boneless pork chops work well too, though they can cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is where the flavor takes off! If you prefer homemade, mix together dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also use Italian seasoning in a pinch for a different twist.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives your dish a creamy base. If you have dietary restrictions, a dairy-free cream soup or homemade white sauce can be a good substitute. Cream of chicken is another solid choice if you want to switch it up.
Sour Cream or Heavy Cream: I usually go for sour cream for its tangy flavor. Heavy cream makes the sauce richer. You can use Greek yogurt as a healthy alternative for a similar texture.
Chicken Broth: It adds moisture and flavor. If you’re avoiding sodium, low-sodium broth or even water works fine, but might miss that savory boost!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender?
The key to moist and tender pork chops is low and slow cooking. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by searing the chops on both sides for a few minutes if you have time. This caramelizes the meat and enhances flavor.
- Keep the slow cooker covered to trap steam and keep the chops moist.
- Cook them on low for 6-7 hours. The longer, the better! This allows them to tenderize perfectly.
- If using boneless chops, check for doneness a bit earlier, around 3.5 hours on high.
- Let the chops rest a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously tender pork chops ready to enjoy!
Creamy Ranch Pork Chops in the Slow Cooker
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 package (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for searing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then you’ll need to set the slow cooker. Cook time is about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, making it a great option for a busy day. You’ll have tender, flavorful pork chops ready for dinner without much effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Pork Chops (Optional):
If you have time, lightly season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2 minutes on each side to give them a nice brown color. This step adds extra flavor but isn’t necessary if you’re short on time.
2. Mixing the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup), sour cream (or heavy cream), chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Layering in the Slow Cooker:
Place the pork chops in the slow cooker in a single layer. Then pour the creamy ranch mixture over the pork chops, making sure they are well covered. This will create a delicious sauce as they cook!
4. Cooking the Pork Chops:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for around 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the pork chops are done, carefully remove them from the slow cooker. Stir the sauce in the slow cooker. If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir this into the sauce. Cook on high for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
6. Serving:
Serve the pork chops on plates, topped with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Delicious paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful creamy ranch pork chops—perfect for any dinner at home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well, but they may cook faster. Start checking for doneness around 3.5 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low to prevent them from drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No problem! You can make a homemade version by mixing dried herbs like dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, Italian seasoning can serve as a flavorful substitute.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything the night before. Combine the pork chops and the sauce in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker and set it to cook!
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 stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to the sauce if it thickens too much.
