If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, this Crockpot Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender pork chops nestled on a bed of golden, flavorful potatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection in a creamy, savory sauce – it’s the kind of satisfying dish that brings everyone to the table with eager smiles. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, infusing every bite with rich, homey goodness while you go about your day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this recipe is a reliable, delicious classic you’ll want to keep on rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things beautifully simple but requires just the right balance of ingredients to achieve that perfect blend of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role: from the seasonings that bring a subtle warmth to the dish to the creamy sauce that ties everything together with silky smoothness.
- 4 pork chops (about 8 ounces each): Choose pork chops about 1 inch thick for the ideal tender, juicy texture; bone-in or boneless both work wonderfully.
- 2 lbs. golden potatoes (cut into chunks): Golden potatoes have the perfect creaminess and hold up well through slow cooking.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a mellow, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness that enhances the pork and potatoes.
- ½ tsp paprika: Offers a gentle smokiness and beautiful color.
- 2½ tsp salt: Essential for drawing out the flavors and seasoning the ingredients evenly.
- ¼ tsp ground pepper: Gives just the right kick without overwhelming the palate.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For browning the pork chops to seal in juices and add rich flavor.
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that makes this dish wonderfully comforting; feel free to swap for cream of mushroom or celery for a tasty twist.
- â…“ cup chicken broth: Lightens the soup base just enough to keep the sauce luscious and smooth.
How to Make Crockpot Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Season the Pork Chops and Potatoes
Begin by mixing the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This combination creates a perfectly balanced seasoning blend that will bring out the best in both your pork and potatoes. Sprinkle half the mixture over your pork chops, making sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor. Toss the remaining seasoning over the potato chunks, ensuring they’re well covered to absorb every bit of taste during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot
Lightly spray the bottom of your crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in the crockpot’s base. This forms a delicious, tender bed for the pork chops that will soak up all the wonderful juices as they cook.
Step 3: Brown the Pork Chops
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Brown the pork chops for a couple of minutes on each side just until the edges develop a golden crust. This step is crucial: browning helps lock in the meat’s juices and adds a beautiful depth of flavor that slow cooking alone can’t achieve.
Step 4: Layer the Pork Chops Over the Potatoes
Carefully place the browned pork chops on top of the potatoes inside the crockpot, arranging them so they sit comfortably without overlapping too much. This layering ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to mingle throughout the dish.
Step 5: Mix and Pour the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth and well combined. Pour this comforting sauce evenly over the pork chops and potatoes, coating everything with that luscious creamy goodness that defines this dish.
Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the pork chops to become incredibly tender while the potatoes soak up all the savory flavors. The end result is a mouthwatering harmony of textures and tastes that’s hard to beat.
How to Serve Crockpot Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten the rich and creamy dish, fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or chives add a lovely pop of color and a subtle herbal freshness that complements the pork and potatoes beautifully. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top right before serving can also add an inviting aromatic touch.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty all on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts balances the richness perfectly. For a little extra zest, a tangy coleslaw or even sautéed apples with cinnamon brings wonderful contrast to the flavors on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pork chops nestled on the potatoes with a spoonful of the creamy sauce drizzled over the top for an appealing presentation. For a family-style meal, serve straight from the crockpot at the center of the table to invite sharing and conversation. If you want to get fancy, garnish with edible flowers or place on a rustic wooden board for a charming, home-cooked feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors deepen even more after a night in the fridge, making for a delicious next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
Crockpot Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe freezes well, too. Allow the dish to cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep its quality for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Adding a splash of chicken broth during reheating can help rejuvenate the creamy sauce and keep everything moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops work wonderfully and often bring extra flavor. Just make sure they are about 1 inch thick for the best results in cooking time and tenderness.
What can I substitute for the condensed cream of chicken soup?
If you want to switch things up or need a dairy-free option, try cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. For a homemade alternative, a simple mix of cream and chicken broth thickened with a little flour works great too.
Can I add other vegetables to the crockpot?
Yes! Carrots, celery, or green beans make great additions and add extra color and nutrients. Just chop them into similarly sized pieces so they cook evenly with the potatoes and pork chops.
How do I ensure the pork chops stay tender and not dry?
Two key tips: sear the pork chops before slow cooking to lock in juices, and do not overcook them. Slow cooking on low heat preserves moisture, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply multiply the ingredients according to the number of guests and use a larger crockpot. This recipe scales up nicely and remains just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling crockpot filled with tender pork chops and potatoes bathed in creamy sauce. This Crockpot Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe is the kind of home-cooked meal that brings warmth, ease, and a touch of soul to your dining table. Give it a try the next time you crave a meal that feels like a loving embrace – I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes to share with family and friends.
Print
Crockpot Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Crockpot Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe offers tender, flavorful pork chops combined with perfectly cooked golden potatoes. Seasoned with a savory blend of garlic, onion, paprika, and herbs, then slow-cooked in a creamy sauce made from condensed soup and chicken broth, it’s an easy, hearty, and satisfying one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat
- 4 pork chops (about 8 ounces each, boneless or bone-in, approximately 1 inch thick)
Vegetables
- 2 lbs. golden potatoes, cut into chunks
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom or cream of celery as variations)
- â…“ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Season the Pork Chops and Potatoes: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle half the seasoning mixture evenly over the pork chops, then sprinkle the remaining half over the potatoes. Toss the potatoes to coat them well with the seasoning.
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the bottom of the crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Add the seasoned potatoes to form a base layer in the crockpot.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the pork chops for about 2 minutes per side until the edges are nicely browned. This step helps to lock in flavor and improve texture.
- Layer the Pork Chops: Place the browned pork chops directly over the potatoes in the crockpot, distributing them evenly.
- Prepare and Add Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the pork chops and potatoes in the crockpot.
- Cook in the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours, until the pork chops are tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
Notes
- You can use boneless or bone-in pork chops; both work well with this recipe.
- For variation, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
- Searing the pork chops before slow cooking adds extra depth of flavor and better texture but can be skipped for a quicker prep.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt if using low-sodium broth or soup.
- Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
