Crockpot Creamy Ranch Pork Chops
This creamy ranch pork chop recipe is the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself. With tender, juicy pork chops swimming in a rich and savory cream sauce, this slow cooker meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without the effort.
Ingredients
- 4 to 6 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Add chicken broth, ranch dressing mix, butter, onion, and garlic to your slow cooker and stir well.
- Place pork chops into the slow cooker, nestling them into the liquid.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until pork is very tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine.
- Cook uncovered for the final 30 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve pork chops with the creamy ranch sauce spooned over top.
Practical Tips
Tip 1: For extra flavor and a golden crust, sear the pork chops in a skillet with a bit of oil for 2 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds depth to the final dish.
Tip 2: Make sure your pork chops are roughly the same thickness so they cook evenly throughout the slow cooking process. This prevents some from becoming dry while others remain undercooked.
Tip 3: Cube your cream cheese before adding it to the slow cooker so it melts more quickly and evenly into the sauce without lumps.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish does not freeze well due to the cream-based sauce.
Common Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops instead? Yes, boneless pork chops work fine, but they may cook faster. Check for doneness around the 4 to 5 hour mark on low heat to prevent overcooking.
What can I serve with this dish? These creamy pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables. The sauce is perfect for soaking into starches.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop? Yes, sear the pork chops, then simmer everything together in a large skillet over medium-low heat for about 20 to 25 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.