In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be challenging to find the time to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal. That’s where our Crock Pot Mississippi Pork Chops recipe comes in handy. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will please the whole family. Let’s dive into the details of this flavorful feast that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless pork chops: Choosing thick, boneless chops will help ensure they are juicy and tender.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning: Adds a creamy, herby flavor that pairs wonderfully with pork.
- 1 packet au jus seasoning: Provides a rich, savory base for the chops.
- 10-12 pepperoncini peppers: These add a slight tang and heat that complements the other flavors.
- ¼ cup pepperoncini pepper juice (optional): For those who enjoy a bit more zest and complexity.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, sliced into pats: Butter makes everything better, adding richness and depth to the dish.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Lightly grease the bottom of your crock pot to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the pork chops in the bottom of the crock pot. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus seasoning over the pork chops. Add the pepperoncini peppers on top.
- Optional: Add Pepperoncini Juice: For an extra kick of flavor, pour the pepperoncini pepper juice over the pork chops.
- Dot with Butter: Place the sliced butter pats on top of the pork chops and peppers.
- Cook: Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The pork chops should be tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the crock pot and serve hot. Spoon some of the flavorful juices from the crock pot over the pork chops for extra flavor.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Thick vs. Thin Pork Chops: Opt for thick, boneless pork chops to ensure they remain juicy and tender during the slow cooking process. Thin chops may become dry and overcooked.
- Adjusting the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more pepperoncini peppers or include some of the seeds for extra heat.
- Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasoning blends to suit your taste preferences. Garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning can all be great additions.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe? A: While boneless pork chops are recommended for ease of serving and eating, you can certainly use bone-in chops if you prefer. Just be aware that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and freeze it? A: Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in a freezer-safe bag and freeze it for later use. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before placing it in the crock pot to cook.
Q: Is it necessary to add the butter to the recipe? A: While the butter adds richness and flavor to the dish, you can omit it if you prefer a lighter option. The pork chops will still be delicious without it.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few adjustments to this recipe to suit your dietary needs:
- Keto Version: Substitute the butter with ghee or olive oil, and use homemade ranch seasoning mix without added sugars.
- Low Carb Version: Use a low-carb ranch seasoning mix and au jus seasoning mix, and reduce the amount of pepperoncini peppers to lower the carb count.
With our Crock Pot Mississippi Pork Chops recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. So dust off your crock pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a delicious feast that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
