When you think of comfort food, there are few dishes that are as universally loved as pork chops and rice. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with their rich, savory flavors makes it a go-to meal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or just when you’re craving something hearty. Now, imagine taking this classic dish to the next level by infusing it with the creamy, flavorful goodness of Campbell’s Soup. That’s exactly what we’re diving into today-the famous Campbell’s Soup Pork Chops and Rice Recipe.
This easy-to-follow recipe uses Campbell’s iconic soups to create a dish that’s packed with flavor, tender pork, and a creamy, savory rice base. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for anyone, whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro looking to get dinner on the table with minimal effort. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers maximum satisfaction with every bite.
So, let’s get into the details and uncover everything you need to know about making this mouthwatering recipe.
Campbell’s Soup Pork Chops And Rice Recipe
This recipe is a staple in many households and for good reason: it’s quick, it’s delicious, and it’s incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender pork chops with perfectly cooked rice, all soaked in a rich, creamy sauce from Campbell’s soup, will have you coming back for seconds. Let’s walk through it step by step.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of this recipe is how few ingredients you really need. But even with its minimalistic list, you get a flavorful dish that feels much more complex than it is. Here’s what you’ll need to make Campbell’s Soup Pork Chops and Rice:
- Bone-in or boneless pork chops (4 pieces): This is the star of the show. Boneless chops are easier to handle, but bone-in can add more flavor.
- Uncooked long-grain white rice (1 cup): White rice works best for this dish, as it absorbs the creamy soup mixture and becomes soft and tender.
- Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This is the key ingredient that makes the dish so comforting. It gives the rice a smooth, velvety texture while adding depth to the overall flavor.
- Campbell’s Onion Soup (1 packet or 1 can): This adds a savory depth of flavor and enhances the pork’s taste, marrying perfectly with the creamy mushroom soup.
- Water (1 ½ cups): This will help cook the rice and create a perfect texture for the entire dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These basic seasonings elevate the flavors, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Garlic powder (optional, ½ tsp): A pinch of garlic powder is a great way to deepen the flavor profile without being overpowering.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve got all the ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is relatively hands-off, with most of the magic happening in the oven. Here’s how to put everything together:
- Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) to get things heating up. This temperature is perfect for slow-cooking the pork chops, ensuring they’re juicy while the rice cooks to perfection.
- Prepare the baking dish: Choose a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
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Layer The Rice And Soup Mixture
- In a bowl, combine the uncooked rice, Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup, and Campbell’s Onion Soup. Stir them together to get a nice, smooth consistency.
- Add water and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Pour the rice and soup mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spoon to spread it out evenly across the bottom.
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Add The Pork Chops
- Season the pork chops with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Place the pork chops directly on top of the rice mixture. The soup and rice will cook around the pork, infusing it with flavor.
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Cover And Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help trap moisture and ensure everything cooks evenly.
- Bake for 45 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure the rice is absorbing the liquid and cooking properly.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the pork chops are golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C is ideal for pork).
- Serve and enjoy: Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the rice to firm up a bit and gives the pork chops time to rest.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this dish plays an important role, making it not just a quick dinner, but one that’s packed with flavor and comfort. Here’s a quick breakdown of why each ingredient works so well:
- Pork Chops: The pork adds a savory, rich element to the dish. The fat in the pork chops helps keep them tender while cooking, especially when baked slowly.
- Rice: Rice serves as the perfect base to soak up the flavors from the soup and the pork. It creates a cohesive dish where every bite has just the right amount of flavor and texture.
- Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup: This classic soup brings a creamy, earthy taste. It thickens the sauce and makes the rice incredibly rich and satisfying.
- Campbell’s Onion Soup: This adds savory umami to the dish, making the pork even more flavorful. It’s the secret ingredient that really brings the whole thing together.
Expert Tips
To make sure your Campbell’s Soup Pork Chops and Rice turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips from seasoned cooks:
- Choose the right pork chops: If you want extra juicy chops, go for bone-in pork chops. They tend to be more flavorful and retain moisture better than boneless.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes. This helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid, making it fluffier and more flavorful.
- Don’t skip the foil: Covering the dish with foil while it bakes is essential. It traps steam and moisture, preventing the rice from drying out.
- Adjust the seasoning: Depending on your taste, you might want to add a bit more garlic powder or even some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.
Recipe Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways you can put your own spin on it. Here are some variations to try:
- Add vegetables: Toss in some frozen peas, carrots, or green beans before baking for an added burst of color and nutrients.
- Swap the pork chops: Try using chicken breasts or thighs instead of pork. You’ll get a similar result, with the chicken soaking up the creamy soup base.
- Spicy kick: If you like some heat, stir in a little chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce into the soup mixture before baking.
- Cheese lovers: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pork chops in the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Final Words
This recipe is all about convenience without sacrificing flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a meal that feels like a big-time treat. The combination of Campbell’s soups, tender pork, and perfectly cooked rice results in a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress guests, this dish is sure to please.