5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Mushrooms
Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of pork chops simmering in a rich and flavorful mushroom sauce, all with the convenience of your slow cooker doing the hard work for you. Whether you're catering to a busy weeknight meal or preparing a comforting dinner for guests, these 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Mushrooms are the perfect dish. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this recipe is set to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To start this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- 1 pound of sliced mushrooms
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet of onion soup mix
- 1 cup of chicken broth
Preparation Steps
Here’s how you can make this delectable dish:
- Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. If you prefer, you can use additional spices like garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.
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Layer the Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, lay the seasoned pork chops at the bottom. Add the sliced mushrooms on top. Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the mushrooms. Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly, and finally, pour the chicken broth into the cooker.
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Slow Cook:
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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Serve:
Once cooked, gently remove the pork chops from the slow cooker. If the sauce is too thin, thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water, and stir into the cooker). Pour the sauce over the pork chops when serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
💡 Note: Bone-in pork chops can add more flavor to the sauce, but boneless chops are quicker to cook and easier to eat.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook with the lid off for the last 30 minutes to evaporate some liquid or use the cornstarch slurry method mentioned above.
- Pork Chop Selection: Opt for pork chops that are about 1-inch thick for the best texture after slow cooking. Thinner cuts might become too dry.
- Mushroom Choices: Use a variety of mushrooms like cremini, button, or even wild mushrooms to enrich the dish’s flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some ideas to complement your pork chops:
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
- Offer a crisp green salad for a balance of textures and flavors.
👩🍳 Note: For a lighter version, use low-sodium soup and broth, or make your own mushroom soup at home.
In this simple, yet satisfying meal, the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender pork chops enveloped in a savory mushroom sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, requiring only five ingredients that transform into a mouthwatering dinner with minimal effort. Whether for a cozy family dinner or an easy entertaining meal, this recipe offers convenience, flavor, and the joy of a homemade meal that speaks of comfort and care.
Can I use frozen pork chops for this recipe?
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It’s best to use thawed pork chops for this recipe as it ensures even cooking. If using frozen chops, increase the cooking time by at least 1-2 hours on low, and ensure they reach the recommended internal temperature for safety.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
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If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make your own mushroom sauce with ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, and milk or cream. Alternatively, use a homemade or store-bought chicken or beef gravy with added mushrooms.
Is there a way to reduce the sodium content?
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To lower the sodium, opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added versions of the soup and broth. You can also use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to flavor the dish without adding extra salt.