01 -
Okay, so first things first, grab your lamb chops. I usually just pat them dry with a paper towel; no need to sear them unless you really want to. Honestly, I find searing adds an extra step that isn't strictly necessary for slow cooker tenderness. Just lay them right into the bottom of your crock pot. If you're using bone-in, try to arrange them in a single layer if you can, but it's okay if they overlap a little. I always take a moment to admire the raw meat, thinking about how good it's going to be!
02 -
Next, grab those magical packets! Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix, the ranch seasoning, and the dried onion soup mix evenly over the lamb chops. Don't clump it all in one spot, try to get good coverage. I used to just dump it all in the middle, and then I'd have to stir it later, which kind of defeats the purpose of "set it and forget it." Then, just dot the top with slices of butter. This is where the richness really starts to build, you know?
03 -
Now for the fun part: the pepperoncini! Arrange them around and on top of the lamb chops. And don't forget a good splash of that briney pepperoncini juice! I usually pour in about 1/4 cup, but honestly, if you love that tangy kick like I do, a little more won't hurt. This is where the flavor profile really starts to develop and get that Mississippi zing. It smells kinda vinegary at this point, but trust the process!
04 -
Pop the lid on your crock pot. Set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. I always go for the low setting if I can, because that long, slow cook really breaks down the lamb and makes it so incredibly tender. This is the hardest part, walking away and letting it do its thing! I always peek in about an hour before it's done, just to smell the amazingness, even though I know I shouldn't lift the lid too much.
05 -
Once the cooking time is up, the lamb should be fall-apart tender. Seriously, it should shred with just a fork. Carefully remove the lamb to a cutting board or a separate bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat; it should be super easy. If you're feeling fancy, you can skim some of the fat from the sauce in the crock pot, but honestly, I rarely do because I'm usually too hungry!
06 -
Return the shredded lamb to the crock pot, stirring it gently into that glorious, savory sauce. It should look incredibly rich and glossy. Taste it and adjust any seasonings if you feel it needs a little something extra, though it rarely does. Serve your Crock Pot Mississippi Lamb Chops warm with your favorite sides. The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table, trust me!