1. Season the pork chops by placing them in the slow cooker and sprinkling generously with salt, black pepper, onion soup mix, and garlic powder to create a rich and well-seasoned base.
2. Prepare the sauce by mixing cream of mushroom or chicken soup with beef or chicken broth in a separate bowl. Add powdered brown gravy to the mixture and stir thoroughly until well combined.
3. Pour the prepared sauce over the seasoned pork chops in the slow cooker, ensuring each chop is thoroughly coated. If desired, add optional mushrooms and onions on top for enhanced flavor.
4. Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours if time is limited. This ensures the pork chops become tender and flavorful.
5. Optionally, thicken the gravy by creating a slurry with cornstarch and water. Add the slurry to the Crock-Pot about 30 minutes before cooking ends, stirring to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, gently stir the dish to ensure the pork chops are evenly coated in gravy.
7. Serve the smothered pork chops hot over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or crispy french fries to complete the meal.