Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes: A Comfort Food Classic
Few meals capture the essence of comfort food like Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes. This recipe combines tender, juicy pork chops with perfectly cooked red potatoes, all coated in a rich and flavorful ranch seasoning blend. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a weeknight dinner, this dish is a breeze to make and guaranteed to please. Its simplicity and mouthwatering taste make it an instant favorite.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
Proteins & Main Ingredients
Boneless or Bone-In Pork Chops (6, ¾-inch thick): The star of the dish, pork chops become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they slow-cook. Bone-in chops add an extra layer of flavor, while boneless ensures a cleaner presentation.
Red Potatoes (3 lbs, quartered): Creamy and hearty, these potatoes soak up the ranch-flavored sauce, delivering bursts of flavor in every bite.
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers
Dry Ranch Seasoning (2 teaspoons): The backbone of the dish, ranch seasoning provides a tangy, herby, and savory kick that ties all the ingredients together.
Apple Cider Vinegar (2 teaspoons): A splash of acidity that balances the richness of the pork and potatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Cooking Fats
Olive Oil (½ cup): Helps evenly coat the pork and potatoes, locking in moisture while adding a light, fruity undertone.
Butter (2 tablespoons, cubed): Melts over the top during cooking, creating a silky finish that enhances the dish’s richness.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and quarter the red potatoes for even cooking.
If using bone-in pork chops, pat them dry to ensure a good sear (optional but recommended).
2. Brown the Pork Chops (Optional)
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
Sear the pork chops for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds a deeper, caramelized flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. Make the Ranch Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, dry ranch seasoning, and apple cider vinegar until combined.
4. Assemble the Crockpot
Place the quartered potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the pork chops.
Pour the ranch mixture over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Scatter the butter cubes across the top for added richness.
5. Cook Low and Slow
Set your crockpot to low for 5-6 hours or high for 3 hours. The slow cooking ensures the pork chops remain tender and the potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors.
6. Season and Serve
Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with a drizzle of the flavorful juices from the crockpot.
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Why This Recipe is Loved
Effortless Cooking: Minimal prep and the magic of a crockpot make this a go-to recipe for busy days.
Rich, Savory Flavors: The combination of ranch seasoning, butter, and pork juices creates a sauce that’s irresistible.
Versatile Ingredients: Easy to customize with different vegetables or seasoning blends to suit your taste.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Results
1. Searing for Flavor: Browning the pork chops before slow-cooking enhances the overall depth of flavor.
2. Even Cooking: Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly alongside the pork.
3. Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
4. Layering: Always place the potatoes at the bottom of the crockpot, as they take longer to cook than the pork.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli to add a pop of color and balance the richness.
For a comforting meal, serve with warm buttered rolls or cornbread.
Drizzle the juices over a bed of mashed potatoes or enjoy them as a gravy for extra indulgence.
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Conclusion
This Crockpot Ranch Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and utterly delicious. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Ready to savor the perfect combination of tender pork, creamy potatoes, and bold ranch flavors? Try this recipe today and elevate your dinner game!
