Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Italian Pork Chops
Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Italian Pork Chops are tender, juicy, and packed with savory Italian flavor. With only three main ingredients and minimal preparation, this easy slow cooker dinner is perfect for busy weeknights. The pork chops cook slowly in a flavorful sauce until tender and delicious.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4–6 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes to 6 hours 5 minutes on LOW
- Servings: 4
- Cooking Method: Slow Cooker
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick
- 1 packet Italian salad dressing and seasoning mix
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Time: 1 minute
Lightly spray the inside of a slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. This helps prevent the sauce from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Add the Pork Chops
Time: 1 minute
Place the pork chops in a single layer in the bottom of the slow cooker. If using bone-in chops, arrange them so they fit comfortably without overlapping too much.
Step 3: Prepare the Italian Sauce
Time: 2 minutes
In a small bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup with the Italian seasoning and dressing mix. Stir thoroughly until the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the soup.
Step 4: Cover the Pork Chops
Time: 1 minute
Pour the creamy Italian mixture evenly over the pork chops. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce so that the chops are well coated.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Time: 4–6 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, depending on the thickness of the pork chops and your slow cooker.
Avoid opening the lid frequently because this releases heat and can increase the cooking time.
The pork should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest before serving.
Step 6: Rest the Pork
Time: 3 minutes
Once the pork chops are fully cooked, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and let them rest for approximately 3 minutes.
This allows the juices to redistribute and helps keep the pork tender.
Step 7: Serve
Spoon some of the creamy Italian sauce over each pork chop and serve immediately.
These pork chops pair especially well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or green beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops with:
- Mashed potatoes
- White or brown rice
- Egg noodles
- Roasted potatoes
- Green beans
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted carrots
- Fresh garden salad
Storage Instructions
Allow leftovers to cool and refrigerate them in an airtight container within 2 hours.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
For longer storage, freeze cooked pork chops with the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Reheating Instructions
Place the pork chops and sauce in a covered skillet over low heat. Add a small splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened.
Heat gently until the pork reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating leftovers.
Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave in 30–60 second intervals until thoroughly hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do Italian pork chops take in the slow cooker?
A: They take approximately 4–6 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH. The exact time depends on the thickness of the pork chops and your slow cooker.
Q: What temperature should pork chops reach?
A: Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. Use a food thermometer in the thickest part of the chop.
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
A: Yes. Bone-in pork chops work well and can provide extra flavor. Cooking time may vary depending on their thickness.
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops?
A: Yes. Boneless pork chops are a convenient option. Because they can be leaner and thinner, begin checking them earlier to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I use another cream soup?
A: Yes. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be substituted for cream of chicken soup.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes. Mushrooms, sliced onions, carrots, or green beans can be added. Keep in mind that adding ingredients may slightly change the cooking time and amount of sauce.
Q: Can I brown the pork chops first?
A: Yes. Searing the pork chops in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker can give them additional color and flavor. This step is optional and adds preparation time.
Q: Can I prepare the recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can combine the soup and Italian seasoning mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it separately. Keep the raw pork refrigerated until you are ready to assemble and cook the recipe.
Q: Why are my pork chops dry?
A: Pork chops can become dry if they are overcooked. Use a meat thermometer and begin checking thinner chops earlier than the suggested cooking time.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes. Cool the pork and sauce, place them in an airtight freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Q: What is the best side dish for these pork chops?
A: Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, green beans, or roasted vegetables pair especially well with the creamy Italian sauce.
