Slow cooker pork chops with cream of mushroom soup delivers consistently juicy results that beat stovetop methods. The magic happens as the condensed soup breaks down during cooking, creating a rich mushroom gravy that infuses the pork chops with savory depth while keeping them remarkably tender. This recipe solves the common problem of dry, tough pork chops by leveraging the crockpot's gentle, even heat.
Why This Crockpot Pork Chops Recipe Works
The cream of mushroom soup acts as both flavor enhancer and moisture protector. Unlike traditional pan-frying where pork chops easily overcook, the slow cooker's low temperature allows collagen to gradually break down without squeezing out precious juices. The condensed soup's concentrated flavors penetrate the meat while its starch content thickens into a luscious sauce.
Perfect Crockpot Pork Chops Ingredients
Yields 4 servings | Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 4-6 hours
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pork chops (bone-in) | 4 (1-inch thick) | Shoulder or loin chops work best |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Regular or low-sodium version |
| Beef broth | ½ cup | Enhances depth of flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Fresh minced garlic also works |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | Or ½ cup sliced fresh onions |
| Dried thyme | ½ tsp | Rosemary makes good substitute |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For optional searing step |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep the pork chops: Pat chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Optional sear (recommended): Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chops 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds flavor complexity.
- Prepare sauce: In medium bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and dried thyme until smooth.
- Layer in crockpot: Place chops in slow cooker in single layer. Pour sauce mixture evenly over chops, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2½-3 hours. Chops are done when internal temperature reaches 145°F and meat easily pulls apart with fork.
- Rest and serve: Let chops rest 5 minutes before serving. Spoon mushroom gravy generously over each chop.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Thickness matters: Use 1-inch thick pork chops for best results. Thinner chops may become dry during cooking.
- Don't skip the sear: Searing creates a flavorful crust that survives slow cooking. For extra tender results, skip searing but reduce cooking time by 1 hour.
- Check early: Pork chops can overcook quickly. Start checking at 4 hours on LOW setting.
- Thicken the sauce: For richer gravy, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water after cooking. Stir into sauce and cook 15 minutes on HIGH.
Delicious Variations to Try
Transform this basic crockpot pork chops and cream of mushroom soup recipe with these easy modifications:
- Bacon-wrapped version: Wrap each chop with 1 slice bacon before placing in crockpot. The bacon fat infuses incredible flavor while keeping chops moist.
- Herb-infused: Add 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme to the crockpot before cooking. Remove before serving.
- Creamy mushroom and onion: Add 1 cup sliced onions to the bottom of the crockpot before adding chops.
- Wine-enhanced: Replace beef broth with dry white wine for sophisticated flavor depth.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make homemade mushroom sauce with cornstarch.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy mushroom pork chops crockpot recipe pairs perfectly with:
- Mashed potatoes (the ideal gravy vessel)
- Buttered egg noodles
- Roasted vegetables like carrots or green beans
- Crusty bread for soaking up extra sauce
For a complete meal, serve with a simple side salad. The rich mushroom gravy complements earthy greens like spinach or arugula.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results when reheating crockpot pork chops with mushroom gravy:
- Stovetop method: Gently warm in skillet over medium-low heat with 1-2 tbsp broth or water to prevent drying.
- Microwave method: Cover and heat at 50% power in 1-minute intervals, stirring sauce between intervals.
- Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for this crockpot recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well but require slightly less cooking time. Reduce slow cooker time by 30-60 minutes compared to bone-in chops. Check for doneness at 3½ hours on LOW setting to prevent overcooking, as boneless chops dry out more quickly.
How do I prevent dry pork chops in the crockpot?
Dry pork chops typically result from overcooking or using thin cuts. Always use 1-inch thick chops, avoid cooking beyond 145°F internal temperature, and include sufficient liquid (at least ½ cup broth). Searing before slow cooking creates a moisture barrier that helps maintain juiciness throughout the cooking process.
Can I make this recipe without condensed soup?
Absolutely. Create a homemade substitute by sautéing 8 oz sliced mushrooms with 1 diced onion until soft. Add 1 cup beef broth, 1 tbsp flour, 1 tsp garlic powder, and ½ cup heavy cream. Simmer until thickened, then use in place of condensed soup. This fresh mushroom sauce yields excellent results for your slow cooker pork chops recipe.
What's the ideal cooking time for pork chops in crockpot?
For 1-inch thick bone-in pork chops, cook 4-6 hours on LOW or 2½-3 hours on HIGH. Boneless chops need 3½-5 hours on LOW. Always check internal temperature - pork is perfectly cooked at 145°F. Overcooking beyond this point causes toughness regardless of cooking method.
Can I add vegetables to this crockpot pork chops recipe?
Yes, hard vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions can go in at the beginning. Add softer vegetables like peas or green beans during the last hour of cooking. For best results with crockpot pork chops and mushroom soup, place vegetables underneath the chops so they cook in the flavorful liquid while the meat stays above the liquid line.
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