When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals that require minimal effort, slow-cooker recipes are hard to beat. This recipe for Tender Slow Cooker Ranch Pork Chops is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. It’s a dish that brings comfort to the table with its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork chops. With only three main ingredients, it’s not just simple but also budget-friendly. Let your slow cooker work its magic while you focus on other tasks, knowing a delicious dinner awaits.
Ingredients
Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (around 1 oz)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or substitute with cream of mushroom soup)
- 1 can of water (use the empty soup can for measurement)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Start by rinsing your pork chops under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures the meat is clean and ready to absorb the flavors. Place the pork chops directly into the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Base
Open the can of cream of chicken soup and pour it over the pork chops. Make sure to scrape out all the contents of the can. Then, fill the empty soup can with water and add it to the slow cooker. This dilutes the soup, creating a creamy sauce as it cooks.
Step 3: Incorporate the Seasoning
Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly over the pork chops and soup mixture. You can use the entire packet for a stronger ranch flavor or adjust the quantity based on your taste preference. Mix lightly to combine the flavors, but don’t worry too much about thorough blending; the slow cooker will do the job during the cooking process.
Step 4: Slow Cooking Magic
Set your slow cooker to the low setting and let the pork chops cook for 6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook them on high for 3–4 hours, but the low and slow method yields the most tender results. During the cooking process, the pork chops will soak up the flavors of the sauce, becoming incredibly tender.
Serving Suggestions
After 6 hours, your pork chops will be ready to serve. Carefully remove them from the slow cooker using a spatula or tongs, as they’ll be very tender and may fall apart. Spoon some of the creamy ranch sauce over the top for added flavor. These pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, such as:
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Buttered egg noodles
- Roasted vegetables
For a complete meal, serve with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Success
- Meat Choice: Bone-in pork chops tend to stay juicier, but boneless works just as well. Choose thick-cut chops to prevent overcooking.
- Optional Additions: Add a handful of sliced mushrooms, diced onions, or minced garlic for extra depth of flavor.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
This recipe for Tender Slow Cooker Ranch Pork Chops delivers a flavorful, comforting meal with minimal effort. With its creamy sauce and perfectly tender pork, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weekday or hosting friends on the weekend, this slow cooker recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and let the rich flavors transform a simple dinner into a memorable experience.
Enjoy every tender, creamy bite!