Prepare to savor the succulent flavors of our Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops recipe! These tender, juicy pork chops are enveloped in a rich and savory gravy, creating a dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With the convenience of your slow cooker, you can enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations to ensure everyone can indulge in this irresistible dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 can of chicken broth
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet of onion soup mix
- 1 can dry pork broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Season the boneless pork chops with garlic powder, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, and dry pork broth until well combined.
- Layer in Slow Cooker:
- Place the seasoned pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the mixture of chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, and dry pork broth over the pork chops, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the pork chops on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and serve them hot, spooning the flavorful gravy over the top.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, you can sear the pork chops in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker.
- Customize the gravy by adding diced onions, minced garlic, or sliced mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
- Experiment with different seasoning blends or herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the cream of chicken soup with a keto-friendly alternative or make a homemade version using heavy cream and chicken broth.
- Omit the dry pork broth and onion soup mix or use keto-friendly alternatives.
- Serve the smothered pork chops over cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli for a satisfying keto meal.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto adaptations mentioned above.
- Limit the amount of cream of chicken soup used or dilute it with additional chicken broth to reduce the carb content.
- Use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or arrowroot powder to thicken the gravy if needed.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Smothered Pork Chops recipe is a testament to the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals made with love. With its tender pork chops bathed in a luscious gravy, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables, these smothered pork chops are sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a taste of comfort with this irresistible recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe? A: Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used instead of boneless pork chops. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in pork chops may require slightly longer cooking.
Q: Can I use homemade chicken broth instead of canned? A: Absolutely! Homemade chicken broth can be used in place of canned chicken broth for a fresher, more flavorful option. Simply adjust the quantity to match the amount called for in the recipe.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Yes! You can make this recipe dairy-free by using dairy-free cream of chicken soup or omitting it altogether. Additionally, you can use water or dairy-free milk as a substitute for the chicken broth.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish? A: Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the slow cooker along with the pork chops for a complete meal. Just be mindful of the cooking time required for the vegetables to become tender.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Yes, leftovers of the smothered pork chops can be frozen for future enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
