Oh, friends, this is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl. Crockpot pork chops, inspired by the Pioneer Woman herself, are the ultimate comfort food. The pork chops come out tender enough to cut with a fork, the creamy gravy is dreamy, and it’s all made super easy in your slow cooker. It’s the kind of recipe that makes dinner feel special, even on a busy weeknight. Bonus? The kids love it, especially over a bed of mashed potatoes or rice. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Tools
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
Why I Love This Recipe
This one hits all the cozy notes. I grew up with meals like this — slow-cooked meat, creamy gravy, and a side of mashed potatoes. It’s nostalgic and practical, and honestly, it’s hard to mess up.
- Everything cooks in one pot
- It makes the house smell amazing all day
- The pork is so tender
- The creamy gravy goes with everything
- It’s easy to prep ahead
How Many It Serves
4 servings
Cook Time
6–7 hours on low, or 3–4 hours on high
Macros (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 435
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 14g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Slow cooking breaks down the connective tissue in pork chops, making them fork-tender. The cream soups create a rich, moist environment, and the ranch mix adds savory depth without needing lots of extra ingredients. Chicken broth thins the sauce just enough while enhancing flavor.
Common Mistakes
- Skipping seasoning: Pork can be bland—season both sides well.
- Overcrowding the crockpot: Lay the chops in a single layer if possible.
- Using thin chops: They dry out fast. Stick to 1-inch thick.
- Undermixing the sauce: Make sure it’s smooth so it cooks evenly.
What to Serve With
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Roasted carrots or green beans
- Buttered noodles
- Dinner rolls or crusty bread
FAQ
Can I use only cream of chicken soup?
Yes! If you or your family prefer it, just swap the mushroom soup for a second can of cream of chicken.
Can I skip the searing?
You can, but a quick sear adds flavor and color.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely — assemble the sauce and keep it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just pour and go.
Can I use boneless chops?
Yes, just make sure they’re thick-cut and not too lean.
Pro Tips
- Sear the pork chops first! Adds a golden crust and deep flavor.
- Layer smartly. Keep chops in a single layer for even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning. Always taste the gravy at the end.
- Make it kid-friendly. Double up on cream of chicken if needed.
- Thicken if you like. Use a cornstarch slurry at the end for rich gravy.
Possible Substitutions and Variations
- No ranch mix? Use Italian dressing mix.
- Gluten-free? Use gluten-free soups and broth.
- Add veggies. Carrots, mushrooms, onions — go for it!
- Swap the meat. Try chicken thighs for a new twist.
Make Ahead Tips
Mix the soups, broth, and ranch mix the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just season the chops, dump everything into the crockpot, and start cooking.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Crockpot Pork Chops
1. Season the Pork Chops
Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
2. Make the Gravy
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and ranch dressing mix until smooth.
3. Assemble in the Crockpot
Place the seasoned pork chops in the crockpot in a single layer. Pour the gravy mixture over the top, making sure the chops are fully covered.
4. Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the pork chops are tender.
5. Serve
Serve the pork chops over mashed potatoes or rice, spooning the gravy generously over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the gravy has thickened too much.
- Freeze: Freeze the pork chops and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This Pioneer Woman Crockpot Pork Chops recipe is a game-changer for busy families. It’s easy, comforting, and absolutely delicious—perfect for cozy dinners around the table. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any tweaks you made. Enjoy! 😊
