Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is beloved for her approachable, delicious recipes that bring families together around the dinner table. Among her many comforting classics, Pioneer Woman Pork Loin Chops stand out as a truly satisfying and easy-to-make meal. This recipe transforms simple boneless pork loin chops into incredibly tender, flavorful perfection, all thanks to the magic of slow cooking. If you’re looking for a hearty, no-fuss dinner that will impress even the pickiest eaters, look no further than these Pioneer Woman slow cooker pork loin chops.
Pioneer Woman Pork Loin Chops ready to be served
This isn’t just another pork chop recipe; it’s a Pioneer Woman recipe. That means it’s packed with flavor, easy to follow, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. What sets these Pioneer Woman pork loin chops apart is the combination of a quick sear before slow cooking and a rich, creamy gravy that smothers the chops in deliciousness. While some slow cooker pork chop recipes skip the searing step, Ree Drummond’s method adds a layer of flavor and texture that truly elevates the dish. Having tried both methods, searing the pork chops beforehand makes a noticeable difference in the final result, creating a more robust and satisfying meal.
Why Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Pork Loin Chops are a Must-Try
Pioneer Woman’s recipes are known for their simplicity and comforting flavors, and these pork loin chops are no exception. They are perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed Sunday suppers. The slow cooker does most of the work, transforming economical pork loin chops into a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Imagine coming home to the aroma of savory pork and creamy gravy – that’s the promise of this recipe.
Searing pork loin chops in a skillet
Beyond the ease of preparation, these Pioneer Woman pork loin chops are incredibly versatile. Serve them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy egg noodles, or even a simple side of rice. The rich gravy is perfect for spooning over your chosen side, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. And if you’re a fan of Ree Drummond and her cooking style, you know that her recipes are all about creating comforting, family-friendly meals that are both delicious and approachable. This pork loin chop recipe is a shining example of her culinary philosophy.
Simple Ingredients for Flavorful Pork Loin Chops
The ingredient list for Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Pork Loin Chops is straightforward, using pantry staples to create a dish that tastes far more complex than it is. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Pork Chop Dredge:
- Flour: All-purpose flour helps to create a golden crust when searing and slightly thickens the gravy as it cooks.
- Seasoned Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper: This blend of seasonings provides a savory and slightly spicy base flavor for the pork chops. The cayenne pepper is optional but adds a nice touch of warmth.
- Dried Thyme Leaves: Thyme adds an earthy, aromatic note that complements pork beautifully.
- Vegetable Oil & Butter: A combination of oil and butter is used for searing. Oil prevents the butter from burning, while butter adds richness and flavor.
Main Ingredients:
- Boneless Pork Loin Chops: Boneless pork loin chops are lean and cook quickly, making them ideal for this recipe. Look for chops that are about 1-inch thick for best results. Bone-in chops can also be used, but may require slightly longer cooking time.
- Large Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and savory depth to the gravy.
For the Creamy Gravy:
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This pantry staple forms the base of the creamy gravy, adding richness and body. Cream of chicken soup can be substituted if preferred.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth provides moisture for slow cooking and adds another layer of savory flavor to the gravy.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy, umami depth that balances the richness of the cream of mushroom soup.
- Fresh Thyme Sprigs: Adding fresh thyme sprigs to the slow cooker infuses the gravy with a fresh, herbaceous aroma.
Pork loin chops being browned in a pan
Step-by-Step Guide to Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Pork Loin Chops
Making Pioneer Woman Pork Loin Chops is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and comforting meal:
- Prepare the Dredge: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried thyme leaves. Mix well to ensure all seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Dredge the Pork Chops: Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. This step is crucial for creating a nice sear and slightly thickening the gravy later.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the pork chops in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Searing locks in the juices and adds a depth of flavor. Remove the seared pork chops to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened and slightly translucent. Sautéing the onions before adding them to the slow cooker mellows their flavor and adds another layer of sweetness to the gravy.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker Gravy: In a 6-quart or 8-quart slow cooker, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. This forms the flavorful base for the gravy.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Add the sautéed onions and fresh thyme sprigs to the slow cooker gravy. Nestle the seared pork chops into the gravy mixture, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high heat for 1 hour. Then, reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 2 hours. Cooking on high initially helps to quickly bring the pork chops and gravy to temperature, while the longer low cooking time ensures the pork becomes incredibly tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, the pork loin chops will be incredibly tender and the gravy will be rich and thick. Serve these Pioneer Woman pork loin chops hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or your favorite side dish. Spoon the generous amount of gravy over the pork and sides for a truly comforting meal.
Slow cooker pork loin chops with gravy and thyme
Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Pork Loin Chops
- Don’t Skip the Searing: While it adds an extra step, searing the pork chops is essential for developing flavor and a desirable texture. It creates a beautiful golden crust and locks in the juices, preventing the pork from becoming dry during slow cooking.
- Use Thick-Cut Pork Chops: Opt for pork loin chops that are about 1-inch thick. Thinner chops may become dry when slow-cooked.
- Customize Your Gravy: Feel free to experiment with the gravy. Add a clove of minced garlic to the onions while sautéing, or stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of red wine vinegar to the gravy for extra depth of flavor. A pinch of brown sugar can also enhance the sweetness and richness of the gravy.
- Adjust Cooking Time as Needed: Slow cookers can vary in temperature, so cooking times may need to be adjusted slightly. The pork chops are done when they are easily pierced with a fork and are fork-tender.
- Make it Ahead: These pork loin chops are perfect for meal prepping. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions for Pioneer Woman Pork Loin Chops
Pioneer Woman Pork Loin Chops are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your meal:
- Classic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the quintessential pairing for pork chops and gravy.
- Egg Noodles: Tender egg noodles are another excellent option for soaking up the rich gravy.
- Rice: Serve over white rice or brown rice for a simple and satisfying meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a balanced and nutritious meal.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork and gravy.
More Pioneer Woman Recipes to Love
If you’re a fan of Pioneer Woman’s recipes, be sure to explore some of her other delicious and comforting dishes:
- Pioneer Woman Lemon Bars: A tangy and sweet dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Pioneer Woman Restaurant Style Salsa: A flavorful and zesty salsa that’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Pork Butt: Perfect for making pulled pork sandwiches.
- Pioneer Woman Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Loin: Another delicious pork loin recipe with a sweet and savory glaze.
Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Pork Loin Chops are a guaranteed family favorite. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly comforting, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness of Pioneer Woman’s cooking in your own home!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the dredge
- 1/2 cup of flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon of butter
Main ingredients
- 8 – 1″ thick boneless pork loin chops
- 1 large onion, diced
The gravy
- 1 10.75 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup (can use cream of chicken if you prefer)
- 1 1/4 cups of chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, mix together all the dry ingredients for the dredge — the flour and seasonings.
- Dredge each of the pork chops and coat both sides. Shake off the excess and set the pork chops on a plate.
- In a large skillet, add the oil and butter and heat on medium-high until the butter melts.
- Add the pork chops to the pan and cook for 3 minutes on each side. Remove the pork chops to a plate.
- Add the onions to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes or until soft. Remove the pan from the heat.
- In the slow cooker, add the gravy ingredients — chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, and the Worcestershire sauce. Whisk everything together.
- Now, add in the thyme and the onions. Then, nestle the pork chops in the gravy mixture.
- Cook on high for one hour and then move to low and cook two more hours. The pork chops should be tender and juicy.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
8
Serving Size:
1 Amount Per Serving: Calories: 135Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 449mgCarbohydrates: 11gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 5g
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