Introduction
Looking for a simple, flavorful, and tender pork chop recipe? Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops are the perfect choice! This dish is incredibly easy to prepare with just a few ingredients, and the slow cooker does all the work for you. The juicy pork chops soak up the rich, creamy ranch seasoning, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Origin of Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops
While pork chops have been a classic American favorite, the addition of ranch seasoning is a more modern twist. Ranch flavoring originated in the 1950s when Steve Henson, a plumber-turned-chef, created ranch dressing in California. Over time, ranch seasoning became a versatile ingredient, used in various recipes, including this slow-cooked pork chop dish. The Crock Pot, first introduced in the 1970s, made this dish even more convenient, allowing for slow-cooked perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Super easy – Just throw everything into the Crock Pot!
- Fall-apart tender – Slow cooking makes the pork chops juicy and flavorful.
- Packed with ranch flavor – A creamy, herby twist on a classic dish.
- Minimal effort – Perfect for busy days with just 5 minutes of prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
- ½ cup chicken broth (for extra moisture)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter (optional for extra richness)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for a deeper flavor)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Crock Pot
- Lightly grease your Crock Pot with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Season & Arrange the Pork Chops
- Place the pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the pork chops.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Mixture
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup and chicken broth.
- Pour the mixture over the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Pork Chops
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until tender.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Once done, remove the pork chops carefully.
- Stir the remaining sauce and spoon it over the pork chops for extra flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Cooking Tips
- Use bone-in pork chops – They stay juicier during slow cooking.
- Don’t overcook – Pork chops should be tender but not dry. Check after 6 hours on LOW.
- For extra creaminess – Stir in sour cream at the end of cooking.
- Make it a complete meal – Add baby potatoes or carrots to the slow cooker.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too little liquid – Always use broth or soup to keep the pork moist.
- Not seasoning well – Ranch seasoning is great, but adding garlic and onion powder enhances the taste.
- Cooking on high for too long – Low and slow ensures tender pork chops.
Serving Tips
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a hearty meal.
- Pair with steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
- Drizzle extra ranch sauce over the pork chops for extra flavor.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Pork Chops – High in protein and essential vitamins like B12 and zinc.
- Ranch Seasoning – Made with herbs and spices that add flavor without too much salt.
- Chicken Broth – Provides hydration and collagen for joint health.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds creaminess and calcium for strong bones.
Interesting Facts About This Dish
- The Crock Pot was originally designed for Jewish cholent, a slow-cooked stew.
- Ranch dressing is America’s most popular salad dressing and dip.
- Pork is one of the most widely consumed meats worldwide, especially in the U.S. and Europe.
Summarized Recipe
- Season pork chops with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Mix cream of chicken soup and broth, then pour over pork chops.
- Slow cook on LOW for 6-7 hours (or HIGH for 3-4 hours).
- Serve with sauce over mashed potatoes or rice.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Ranch Pork Chops recipe is a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, it’s a comforting dish that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!