Looking for a simple yet delicious meal that practically cooks itself? Crock Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes is the answer. This easy-to-make dish combines the rich flavors of pork with the hearty comfort of potatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection. Here's how you can achieve a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, let’s make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:
- 4-6 pork chops: Choose bone-in or boneless based on your preference. Bone-in adds more flavor.
- 4-6 medium potatoes: Russets are ideal due to their high starch content, but any potato will work.
- 1 large onion: Sliced to add sweetness to the dish.
- 2 cloves of garlic: Minced for that aromatic touch.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup: This acts as the base for our delicious sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: To thin the soup into a gravy.
- Salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs: Common choices include thyme, rosemary, and paprika.
🔔 Note: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding baby carrots or green beans to the mix.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and slice your potatoes into thick chunks. Here are some tips:
- Keep the size consistent for even cooking.
- If using smaller new potatoes, just halve them.
The goal is to have the potatoes cook uniformly with the pork, absorbing all the wonderful juices.
Step 3: Layer Your Crock Pot
Now, it’s time to layer the ingredients in your Crock Pot:
- Layer sliced potatoes on the bottom.
- Add onion slices and minced garlic over the potatoes.
- Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs.
- Place the seasoned pork chops on top of the vegetables.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup with the chicken broth until it’s well combined.
- Pour this mixture over everything in the pot.
🔔 Note: If you want a creamier texture, increase the amount of soup or use heavy cream.
Step 4: Set and Forget
Now, set your Crock Pot:
- For tender pork, cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
This is where the magic happens. The pork will become incredibly tender, and the potatoes will soak up all the flavorful juices. Here’s a table for reference:
| Setting | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Low | 6-8 hours |
| High | 3-4 hours |
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, the pork chops and potatoes will be ready to enjoy:
- Serve directly from the Crock Pot for a rustic presentation.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for garnish.
- Accompany with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
This meal not only fills your home with an inviting aroma but also makes for delightful leftovers, if there are any!
Finally, as you savor this comforting meal, remember that it’s not just about feeding the body but also nourishing the soul. This recipe demonstrates that with a few simple steps, you can create a meal that speaks to the heart of traditional, home-cooked comfort food. It’s all about the slow-cooking process that enriches flavors and brings out the best in both pork and potatoes, providing a satisfying experience with each bite.
Can I use frozen pork chops for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but extend the cooking time by about an hour on low or half an hour on high to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
What other vegetables can I add?
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Feel free to add carrots, green beans, or even peas towards the end of cooking to preserve their texture.
Can I prepare this the night before?
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Absolutely! Layer the ingredients in the Crock Pot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, set the pot to cook and go about your day.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
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Mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce about 30 minutes before serving.
Are there any alternative seasonings I can use?
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Consider trying Italian herbs, garlic powder, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for different flavor profiles.
