Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Pork Chops

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Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Pork Chops

Description: Bone-in pork chops slow-cooked in a savory, creamy gravy infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of tang. The long cooking process breaks down the connective tissue, resulting in meat that falls off the bone with just a touch of a fork.

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 4–6 hours (Low) or 2–3 hours (High)

  • Servings: 3–4 people

Ingredients

  • Pork: 3–4 thick-cut bone-in pork chops (approx. 1 inch thick).

  • The Sauce Base: 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken soup.

  • Seasoning Mix: 1 packet dry Ranch dressing mix (or Italian dressing mix for more zest).

  • Liquid: 1/2 cup chicken broth or water.

  • Creaminess: 4 oz cream cheese (cubed, softened).

  • Flavor Boosters: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.

Instructions

  1. Season: Lightly season the pork chops with pepper and garlic powder (the soup and ranch mix provide plenty of salt).

  2. Layer: Place the pork chops in the bottom of the slow cooker.

  3. Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed soup, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning. Pour this mixture over the chops.

  4. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours.

  5. Finish: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cubed cream cheese. Whisk the sauce gently until the cheese is melted and the gravy is smooth.

  6. Serve: Plate the chops and smother them with the remaining gravy from the pot.

Tips for Success

  • Sear for Flavor: If you have an extra 5 minutes, sear the chops in a hot skillet with a little oil before putting them in the crockpot. This adds a deeper color and “crust” as seen in your photo.

  • Don’t Overcook: Even in a slow cooker, lean pork can get “woody” if left too long. Check them at the 5-hour mark on Low.

  • Thickening: If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water and stir it in during the last 15 minutes.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal

  • Protein: 32g

  • Fat: 24g

  • Carbs: 6g

  • Sodium: 890mg (Note: High due to canned soup/ranch mix).

Benefits

  • High Protein: Excellent for muscle recovery and satiety.

  • Zero Effort: Requires no active standing over a stove, making it perfect for busy weekdays.

  • Kid-Friendly: The mild, creamy sauce is usually a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

Q&A

Q: Can I use boneless chops? A: Yes, but be careful! Boneless chops dry out much faster. Check them at 3–4 hours on Low. Bone-in chops stay juicier and provide more flavor to the gravy.

Q: Can I make this Keto-friendly? A: Swap the condensed soup for a mix of heavy cream and sautéed mushrooms, and use a homemade ranch seasoning (to avoid the cornstarch in packets).

Q: What should I serve this with? A: This dish is best paired with something that can soak up the gravy: garlic mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even steamed cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

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