Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something delicious, easy, and healthy? Then look no further! This slow cooker ranch pork chops recipe is your new go-to for a flavorful and tender meal that requires minimal effort. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned pork chops, bathed in a creamy ranch sauce – all ready when you are, with barely any active cooking time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, effortless entertaining, or simply indulging in a delicious homemade meal. Let's get 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 sour cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This simple step elevates the flavor significantly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, sour cream, olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder. This creates your flavorful ranch sauce.
Slow Cooking the Pork Chops:
- Place the seasoned pork chops in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pour the ranch sauce over the pork chops, ensuring they're mostly submerged in the liquid.
- 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. 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. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.
- Spoon the delicious ranch sauce over the pork chops.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops for even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
- Thicker chops require longer cooking time: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your pork chops. Thicker chops may need an extra hour or two on low.
Variations:
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the ranch sauce for a kick.
- Herb-infused Ranch: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Creamy Mushroom Ranch: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker along with the pork chops and ranch sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate for one pork chop with a portion of the sauce would be around:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This slow cooker ranch pork chops recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. It's a perfect option for busy weeknights, making it a welcome addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!