There’s something wonderfully comforting about a dish that practically cooks itself while filling your home with irresistible aromas. Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Potatoes is one such dish—simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal with minimal fuss. This recipe has been a staple in my family’s kitchen for years, and it holds a special place in my heart. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, offering warmth and comfort with every bite.
I still remember the first time I made this dish for a gathering. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I had invited a few friends over for dinner. The slow cooker was bubbling away in the kitchen, and the scent of seasoned pork chops mingling with earthy potatoes was absolutely mouthwatering. As we gathered around the table, the meal was met with enthusiastic praise and empty plates. Since then, this recipe has become a go-to for family dinners, potlucks, and even those special occasions when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
This Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to enjoy the process without constant supervision. The result is a flavorful and hearty meal that’s both filling and delicious. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delightful dish.
Ingredients
3 lbs red potatoes, quartered
6 (3/4 inch) boneless pork chops (or bone-in if available)
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons butter, cubed
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Wash the red potatoes thoroughly and cut them into quarters. The size of the potato pieces can affect the cooking time, so aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking. If you’re using bone-in pork chops, be prepared for a slightly longer cooking time, as the bones can impact how quickly the meat cooks.
2. (Optional) Sear the Pork Chops
While not essential, searing the pork chops can add an extra layer of flavor to your dish. To do this, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step is optional but recommended if you want a richer, more complex flavor profile. After searing, transfer the pork chops to a plate and set them aside.
3. Mix the Seasoning
In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of olive oil with 2 tablespoons of dry ranch seasoning and 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until the ranch seasoning is fully dissolved and the oil and vinegar are well incorporated. This mixture will become the flavorful sauce that coats both the potatoes and the pork chops.
4. Assemble the Slow Cooker
Place the quartered potatoes into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly. If you opted to sear the pork chops, add them on top of the potatoes. If not, simply arrange the raw pork chops over the potatoes. Drizzle the ranch seasoning mixture over the top, making sure to cover the potatoes and pork chops as evenly as possible. Use a spoon or spatula to toss the ingredients gently, ensuring they are well coated with the seasoning mixture.
5. Add Butter
Cut the butter into small cubes and scatter them over the top of the pork chops and potatoes. The butter will melt during cooking, adding richness and helping to keep the pork chops moist.
6. Cook the Dish
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. For a high setting, the cooking time is approximately 3 hours. If you prefer to cook it on a low setting, it will take about 5-6 hours. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that the pork chops become tender and the potatoes cook to a soft, flavorful consistency.
7. Season to Taste
Once the cooking time is complete, check the seasoning of the dish. Depending on your preference, you might want to add a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Give the ingredients a gentle stir to mix the seasoning throughout before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the great aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few variations and substitutions to tailor the dish to your tastes or dietary needs:
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker. Carrots, bell peppers, or onions can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Dietary Preferences: For a lower-fat option, you can use chicken breasts or thighs instead of pork chops. Similarly, you can use a reduced-fat ranch seasoning mix or homemade seasoning blends to cut down on sodium and calories.
Flavor Boosters: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ranch seasoning mix. For a more herbaceous flavor, you could add fresh rosemary or thyme.
Potato Variations: While red potatoes work well in this recipe, you can also use other types of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or russet potatoes. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different types of potatoes may have slightly different cooking times.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is not only a culinary delight but also a practical choice for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones or catching up on other tasks. The combination of tender pork chops and flavorful potatoes, enhanced by the rich ranch seasoning and buttery finish, creates a meal that is both comforting and satisfying.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned kitchen pro, this dish is accessible and adaptable, making it a great addition to any meal rotation. The ease of preparation and the delectable results make it a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a hearty, homemade meal with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find it becoming a new favorite in your household, just as it has in mine.
Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes
Ingredients
- 3 lbs red potatoes quartered
- 6 3/4 inch boneless pork chops (or bone-in if available)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons butter cubed
Instructions
- Prep Potatoes: Wash and quarter 3 lbs red potatoes, ensuring even sizing for uniform cooking.
- (Optional) Sear Pork Chops: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Sear 6 boneless pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
- Mix Seasoning: In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning, and 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar until well combined.
- Assemble Slow Cooker: Place the quartered potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the pork chops on top, then drizzle with the ranch seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Add Butter: Scatter 2 tablespoons cubed butter over the pork chops and potatoes.
- Cook: Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 5-6 hours until the pork chops are tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Season to Taste: Before serving, check seasoning and add salt and pepper if needed. Gently stir to combine the flavors.
