Perfect Crock Pot Pork Chops with Cream of Mushroom Soup

Yes, you can make delicious crock pot pork chops using cream of mushroom soup as the base sauce. This easy slow cooker method produces tender, flavorful pork chops with minimal prep time. Simply place seasoned pork chops in your slow cooker, pour condensed cream of mushroom soup over them (optionally mixed with broth or milk for thinner consistency), and cook on low for 4-6 hours. The key to success is using bone-in pork chops (¾ to 1 inch thick) to prevent drying out during cooking.

The Ultimate Guide to Crock Pot Pork Chops with Cream of Mushroom Soup

Slow cooker pork chops with cream of mushroom soup represent one of the most reliable comfort food recipes for busy home cooks. This classic combination transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal with minimal hands-on time. The magic happens as the pork chops slowly braise in the creamy mushroom sauce, becoming incredibly tender while absorbing rich flavors.

Why This Slow Cooker Method Works Best

The crock pot's gentle, consistent heat is perfect for pork chops, which often dry out with traditional cooking methods. When using cream of mushroom soup as your sauce base, the slow cooking process allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meat moist. Bone-in pork chops work particularly well in this application because the bone helps retain moisture during the extended cooking time.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Results

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Bone-in pork chops	4 (¾-1 inch thick)	1.5-2 inches thick works for 6-8 hour cooking
Cream of mushroom soup	1 can (10.5 oz)	Regular or low-sodium version
Beef broth or water	½ cup	Creates better consistency than soup alone
Onion powder	1 tsp	Enhances savory notes
Garlic powder	1 tsp	Fresh garlic works too (1-2 cloves minced)
Dried thyme	½ tsp	Or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper	To taste	Season both sides of chops

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the pork chops: Pat chops dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder on both sides.
2. Arrange in slow cooker: Place chops in a single layer in your crock pot, avoiding overlap.
3. Make the sauce: In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with beef broth until smooth. Pour evenly over pork chops.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours (or HIGH for 2-3 hours). Avoid opening the lid frequently.
5. Check doneness: Pork should reach 145°F internally and easily flake with a fork.
6. Rest and serve: Let chops rest 5 minutes before serving with the mushroom sauce spooned over top.

Pro Tips for Best Results

For the most successful crock pot pork chops with cream of mushroom soup, consider these expert recommendations:

• Thickness matters: Choose pork chops at least ¾ inch thick. Thinner cuts will overcook and become dry during the slow cooking process.
• Don't skip searing: For deeper flavor, quickly sear pork chops in a hot skillet with oil before placing them in the crock pot.
• Sauce consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add an additional ¼-½ cup broth. For thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Cooking time adjustment: Boneless pork chops require less time—reduce cooking by 1-2 hours to prevent toughness.
• Acid balance: Stir in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end to brighten the rich flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This versatile crock pot pork chops recipe pairs beautifully with traditional comfort food sides. Serve over mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy mushroom sauce, or alongside buttered egg noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, add frozen peas or green beans during the last hour of cooking.

Try these popular variations to customize your slow cooker pork chops:

• Creamy garlic version: Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves and 2 tablespoons cream cheese during the last 30 minutes
• Mushroom upgrade: Sauté 8 ounces sliced mushrooms with onions before adding to the slow cooker
• Wine enhancement: Replace broth with ½ cup dry white wine for more complex flavor
• Herb infusion: Add fresh rosemary sprigs or a bay leaf for aromatic depth

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often improve overnight as the pork absorbs more of the mushroom sauce. To reheat:

• Stovetop method: Gently warm in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth
• Microwave method: Heat on 50% power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through
• Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Common Questions About Crock Pot Pork Chops

Many home cooks have specific questions about preparing pork chops in a slow cooker with cream of mushroom soup. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions based on extensive testing:

How long should I cook pork chops in a crock pot with cream of mushroom soup?

Cook bone-in pork chops for 4-6 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH. Boneless chops need 3-4 hours on LOW. Always check that internal temperature reaches 145°F before serving. Thicker chops (1.5-2 inches) can handle the full 6 hours without drying out.

Can I use water instead of broth with the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can substitute water for broth, but the flavor will be less robust. For better results, use water with 1 teaspoon of beef base or bouillon. The liquid helps thin the condensed soup to proper consistency while adding moisture during cooking.

Why are my slow cooker pork chops tough?

Tough pork chops usually result from using thin cuts that overcook or from using boneless chops that need less cooking time. Ensure you're using chops at least ¾ inch thick and adjust cooking time accordingly. Also, avoid frequently opening the lid during cooking, which extends the cooking time needed.

Can I add vegetables to this crock pot pork chop recipe?

Absolutely! Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions can go in at the beginning. Softer vegetables like peas, green beans, or broccoli should be added during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to prevent mushiness. Arrange vegetables underneath the pork chops to keep them submerged in the cooking liquid.

How can I make this crock pot pork chop recipe healthier?

For a healthier version, use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the soup, and choose leaner pork loin chops. You can also increase vegetable content by adding mushrooms, onions, and carrots. Reducing the cooking time slightly helps preserve more nutrients in the meat.