A Warm and Hearty Dinner: Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Cream of Mushroom and Noodles

There's something incredibly comforting about coming home to the aroma of pork chops simmering in the slow cooker. Imagine walking through the door, greeted by the scent of tender pork in a creamy mushroom sauce, perfectly paired with soft, twirling noodles.

This recipe combines the ease of a slow cooker with the soul-satisfying warmth of a home-cooked meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or a lazy Sunday, this dish is a hug in a bowl. As someone who relishes the joy of stress-free cooking, I am excited to guide you through making this delightful meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Before we dive into the ingredients and steps, let me share why this recipe might just become a new favorite in your home:

  • Minimal Prep: With a quick setup, your slow cooker does all the heavylifting, allowing you to focus on your day.
  • Full of Flavor: The pork chops cook to such tender perfection that they practically melt in your mouth, all while absorbing the rich, creamy flavors of the mushroom sauce.
  • Comforting: This meal is the culinary equivalent of being wrapped in a cozy blanket beside a crackling fire.

Ready to get started? Let's talk ingredients.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1 package (12 oz) of egg noodles
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Now, let's move on to how you'll be putting all these together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to ensure your pork chops come out perfectly:

1. Season the Pork Chops

Start by seasoning your pork chops with salt and pepper. This not only builds a flavor foundation but also helps to sear in the juices.

2. Sear the Pork Chops

Heat the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step is crucial for developing deep flavors in the meat.

3. Mix the Ingredients

In your slow cooker, combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, and thyme. Stir well to blend the ingredients smoothly.

4. Cook in the Slow Cooker

Place the seared pork chops into the slow cooker. Spoon some of the mushroom mixture over the chops to ensure they are well-coated. Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours. If you're short on time, you can set it to high for 4 hours instead.

5. Prepare the Noodles

About 20 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain well.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the pork chops are tender and fully cooked, serve them over a bed of egg noodles. Spoon extra mushroom sauce over the top for added creamy goodness. Garnish with chopped parsley if using, for a fresh, herby punch.

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Pork Chops

  • Searing Is Key: Don’t skip searing the pork chops as it locks in flavors and improves texture.
  • Thick Chops Work Best: Thicker chops (about 1 inch) tend to stay juicier and become more tender in the slow cooker.
  • Low and Slow: Cooking on low for a longer period tends to yield the most tender results in a slow cooker.

This dish not only fills your belly but also soothes your soul with its warm, creamy goodness. It's perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort from your meal. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious recipe as much as I do!

Heartfelt Takeaway

Remember, cooking is not just about feeding the body, but also comforting the heart. Every time you set these pork chops to cook, think of it as preparing a special treat that offers both sustenance and a moment of peace. Enjoy the process, relish the flavors, and share the joy with others. Happy cooking!