Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This Pork Chop Ranch Slow Cooker recipe is your new go-to for a flavorful, juicy, and tender pork chop experience, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. This recipe delivers on delicious dishes and is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops generously with salt and pepper. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds a beautiful crust. This simple step elevates the final dish significantly.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Place the seared pork chops in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chops.
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Liquid Base: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, water, and garlic powder. Pour this mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion on top.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and easily shredded with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. The cooking liquid can be used to make a delicious gravy if desired, simply thicken it on the stovetop with a cornstarch slurry. Serve with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad all pair perfectly.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the pork chops, ensure there's enough space between them to allow for even browning. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to the perfect internal temperature. Avoid overcooking, which can result in dry and tough meat.
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in pork chops tend to stay moister during cooking. However, boneless chops are also a great option and cook faster.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of ranch seasoning or add other spices like paprika or thyme to customize the flavor to your preference.
Variations:
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cooking liquid for a kick.
- Herb-infused: Experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, and sage all complement pork beautifully.
- Creamy Ranch: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an extra creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This recipe is a testament to how easy it is to create healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. It’s a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy your incredibly tender and flavorful slow cooker pork chops!