Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Then look no further! This slow cooker pork chop recipe with ranch is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Tender, juicy pork chops bathed in a creamy, herbaceous ranch sauce – it’s a delicious dish the whole family will adore. Forget complicated recipes; this one is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, promising a fantastic meal with minimal effort. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy option for a quick dinner idea, perfectly suited for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for a richer sauce)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas and carrots for added veggies
Instructions:
Get started:
- Season pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This simple step elevates the flavor significantly.
Crock Pot Magic:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Searing adds a beautiful crust and enhances the overall taste.
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Transfer the seared pork chops to your slow cooker.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, milk (or cream), garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure everything is well combined for even flavor distribution.
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Pour the ranch mixture over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
Cooking Time & Serving:
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Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are fork-tender and easily shred.
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If using, stir in frozen peas and carrots during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
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Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
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Serve the pork chops with the delicious ranch sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the pork chops in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork chops, check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker pork chops will require longer cooking time.
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in pork chops tend to stay more moist during cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the ranch mixture for a kick.
- Herb-infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for an extra layer of flavor.
- Creamy Mushroom Ranch: Sauté some sliced mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker along with the pork chops and ranch sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy crock pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal that requires minimal effort. The tender pork chops and creamy ranch sauce are a winning combination, making this a dish you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy your delicious, homemade dinner!