Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This crockpot pork chop recipe with cream of mushroom soup is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and easy recipe that delivers tender, juicy pork chops every time, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your delicious homemade cooking. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, all while being incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds great depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (fresh or canned)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Season pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This simple step significantly enhances the flavor of the finished dish.
Cooking in the Crockpot:
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In your slow cooker, combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sherry (if using), Dijon mustard, thyme, and garlic powder. Stir well to create a creamy sauce base.
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Place the seasoned pork chops in the slow cooker, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. If necessary, add a little extra broth to ensure they are partially covered.
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Add the sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker. This adds a nice textural element and enhances the mushroom flavor.
Slow Cooking Process:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and easily fork-tender. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions:
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon the delicious cream of mushroom sauce over the top. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. This makes for a truly satisfying and complete meal.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the crockpot: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops for even cooking.
- Use bone-in pork chops: Bone-in chops stay more juicy and flavorful during the slow cooking process.
- Thicker chops require longer cooking times: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your pork chops.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use different soup: Experiment with other creamy soups like cream of celery or cream of chicken.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This simple crockpot pork chop recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of delicious dishes and best recipes that are easy to make and guaranteed to please the whole family. Enjoy your easy, healthy, and flavorful meal!