Introduction
In a world where time is a precious commodity, especially for busy parents balancing careers and family life, discovering recipes that combine simplicity with exceptional flavor becomes a true culinary treasure. The So Easy It’s Shameful Crock Pot Onion Chops recipe exemplifies this ideal—an effortlessly prepared dish that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering feast with minimal effort and maximum taste. Perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish leverages the slow cooker’s convenience to tenderize pork chops while infusing them with savory onion flavors, caramelized onions, and a comforting aroma that fills your home. As part of the Love With Recipes platform, this recipe has been meticulously crafted to ensure it meets the needs of home cooks seeking quick, reliable, and delicious solutions without compromising on quality or flavor. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this recipe will become a staple in your meal repertoire, offering a delightful, hassle-free dining experience that everyone will enjoy.
Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes
Needed Equipment
- Large Crock Pot / Slow Cooker: Essential for slow cooking and tenderizing the pork chops.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the onion soup mix with water.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure water and seasonings.
- Knife: To slice onions.
- Cutting Board: For slicing onions safely and efficiently.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon: For handling cooked pork chops and onions during serving.
- Serving Dishes: For presenting the finished meal.
Tags
Easy, Slow Cooker, Pork Chops, Budget-Friendly, Family-Friendly, Comfort Food, Dinner, One-Pot, Simple, Weeknight Meal
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it ideal for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week.
Difficulty Level
Beginner to Intermediate. The recipe involves minimal steps, primarily assembling ingredients and setting the slow cooker. It’s suitable for cooks of all skill levels looking for a straightforward yet flavorful dish.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Present in Recipe |
|---|---|
| Gluten | Yes, due to onion soup mix (check labels for gluten-free options) |
| Soy | Possible, depending on onion soup mix brand |
| Milk/Dairy | Typically none |
| Nuts | None |
| Eggs | None |
Dietary Preference
This recipe is naturally gluten-containing unless gluten-free onion soup mix is used. It is not vegetarian or vegan due to the pork chops. For low-carb or keto diets, consider serving with vegetables instead of carbohydrate-heavy sides.
Course
Main Course
Cuisine
American comfort food
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pork Chops | 4 thick-cut boneless or bone-in | Choose good quality, preferably center-cut pork chops |
| Onion Soup Mix | 1 packet (about 1 ounce or 28 grams) | Use store-bought; check for gluten-free if necessary |
| Water | 1 cup (240 ml) | Adjust for desired gravy consistency |
| Onions | 1 large onion, sliced | Yellow or sweet onions work well |
Instructions
Preparation Phase
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring your equipment is clean and ready for use. Clear your workspace to facilitate a smooth cooking process.
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Place the pork chops in the bottom of your crock pot. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution. If you prefer, you can lightly season the pork chops with salt and pepper, although the onion soup mix adds sufficient seasoning. For a more enhanced flavor, consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika—these can be added at this stage or later during serving.
Step 2: Mix the Onion Soup Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the packet of onion soup mix with 1 cup of water. Stir thoroughly until the soup mix is fully dissolved. This mixture will serve as the flavorful broth that will slow-cook the pork chops and create a rich gravy.
Step 3: Pour the Soup Mixture Over Pork Chops
Carefully pour the mixture evenly over the pork chops in the crock pot. Ensure the liquid covers the bottom of the chops but does not submerge them entirely, to prevent over-saturation. The goal is to allow the chops to simmer gently, absorbing the savory onion flavors.
Step 4: Add Onions
Slice the onion thinly and distribute the slices evenly on top of the pork chops. The onions will caramelize slowly during the cooking process, adding sweetness and depth to the dish. For a more intense onion flavor, you can sauté the onions lightly before adding—this step is optional but recommended if you prefer a richer flavor profile.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set the temperature to LOW. Let the dish cook undisturbed for approximately 8 hours. Slow cooking allows the pork chops to become incredibly tender, practically falling apart, while the onions caramelize and meld with the savory broth to create a delicious gravy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully open the lid and use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the pork chops. Serve hot, spooning the flavorful onion gravy over the meat. Pair with your preferred side dishes for a complete meal.
Preparation Tips
- Prepping Ahead: You can assemble the ingredients the night before and refrigerate, making morning preparation even quicker.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different onion soup mixes (e.g., French onion, mushroom, or garlic) to vary the flavor profile.
- Thickening the Gravy: For a thicker sauce, remove the cooked pork chops, then turn the crock pot to HIGH and stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water. Let it cook until thickened, then return the meat to serve.
- Adding Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, or celery can be added during the last 2–3 hours for a complete one-pot meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 379.3 kcal |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 137.3 mg |
| Sodium | 824.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 9.3 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Protein | 42.3 g |
Tips and Tricks
- Enhance Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the broth for a flavor boost.
- Adjust Salt: Since onion soup mixes vary in salt content, taste the broth before serving and adjust with salt or pepper if needed.
- Cooking Time: For slightly firmer pork chops, reduce cooking to 6–7 hours. For fall-apart tenderness, stick with 8 hours or longer.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over mashed potatoes, polenta, or egg noodles to soak up the savory gravy.
Add-ons
- Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary for garnish.
- Shredded cheese sprinkled over the pork during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Crumbled bacon bits added on top for extra smokiness.
Side Dishes
- Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus
- Crisp side salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed rice or buttery noodles
Improvements
For a richer, more complex flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of soy sauce during the last hour of cooking. Additionally, experimenting with different onion varieties or adding a touch of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky undertones. Using bone-in pork chops can also add flavor and juiciness, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Save and Store
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen the gravy. For longer storage, freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of pork chops?
Yes, chicken breasts or thighs can be substituted, but cooking times may need adjustment to prevent overcooking or dryness. Bone-in chicken will require longer cooking time, so monitor carefully.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free onion soup mix and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free. This ensures the dish remains safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can assemble all ingredients the night before, refrigerate, and then cook in the morning. This makes it an excellent option for busy mornings or meal prep.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can replicate the slow cooker process by braising the pork chops in a covered oven-safe dish at 300°F (150°C) for approximately 2–3 hours, checking periodically for tenderness.
Conclusion
The So Easy It’s Shameful Crock Pot Onion Chops recipe embodies the essence of effortless home cooking—requiring minimal prep, leveraging slow cooking technology, and delivering maximum flavor. It’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking hearty, comforting meals without the fuss. The tender pork paired with caramelized onions and savory gravy creates a satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re pressed for time or simply prefer uncomplicated cooking, this recipe proves that delicious meals can be achieved with very little effort. Remember, the beauty of slow cooker recipes lies in their flexibility; feel free to customize with your preferred side dishes, herbs, or additional vegetables. For more such recipes, visit Love With Recipes, your go-to platform for culinary inspiration and practical cooking solutions.
References
1. Allrecipes – Slow Cooker Pork Chops
2. Food Network – 50 Easy Crock Pot Recipes