Tired of complicated weeknight dinners? Craving a flavorful, tender meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! This slow cooker pork chop recipe with ranch is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and results in juicy, fall-apart pork chops the whole family will love. This recipe is a lifesaver for those seeking quick dinner ideas and healthy meals without sacrificing deliciousness. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
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 (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor and creates a nice crust.
Step 2: Building Flavor in the Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, water, and chopped onion (if using). This liquid base will create a flavorful and tender environment for your pork chops.
Step 3: Adding the Pork Chops and Ranch Seasoning
Place the seasoned pork chops in the slow cooker, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the top of the pork chops.
Step 4: Slow Cooking to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are easily pierced with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The longer cooking time in the slow cooker ensures incredibly tender and juicy results.
Step 5: Serving Your Delicious Meal
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the slow cooker. You can serve them as is, or thicken the cooking liquid slightly by whisking in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water. This creates a delicious sauce to pour over the pork chops. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker pork chops may require longer cooking time.
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful and stay moister during slow cooking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Toss in some carrots, potatoes, or green beans during the last hour of cooking for a complete one-pot meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the ranch seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, paprika, or oregano, to customize the flavor profile.
- Creamy ranch: Instead of the powder mix, use 1/2 cup of your favorite creamy ranch dressing.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This slow cooker pork chop recipe with ranch is a fantastic example of easy recipes and delicious dishes that are perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great option for healthy meals and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!