These creamy Cajun pork chops are packed with flavor! Juicy pork is cooked in a rich, spiced cream sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Honestly, who can resist that creamy sauce? I love serving it over fluffy rice or with some crusty bread to soak it all up. It’s a comfort food win every time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless, about 1 inch thick, work best for even cooking. If you prefer, bone-in chops can be used, just increase the cooking time a bit. For a leaner option, pork loin works too!
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy Cajun seasoning, but making your own is just as simple. Combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and a pinch of thyme. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the cayenne for a milder flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be less creamy. Coconut milk also makes a fun dairy-free alternative!
Chicken Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a bit of seasoning can work. The broth adds depth to the sauce, so I recommend sticking with a broth if possible.
Fresh Parsley: This is mainly for garnish, so feel free to swap it out with green onions or chives for a slightly different touch.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops is key to locking in flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure the pork chops are patted dry – moisture creates steam which prevents browning.
- Heat the olive oil in the skillet until it’s hot but not smoking – this is when you get that nice brown color.
- Sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip to cook the other side. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the temperature high.
Using a meat thermometer helps! When they reach 145°F (63°C), they’re perfectly cooked.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then around 15-20 minutes cooking everything up. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear! Season both sides of the chops generously with Cajun seasoning for that delicious spiced flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they’re golden brown and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step builds great flavor for your sauce!
4. Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Next, add the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and dried thyme to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another minute to blend the flavors.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Keep an eye on it; you want it creamy but not boiling.
6. Combine Pork Chops with Sauce:
Add the pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some of that creamy sauce over them. Let them heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Final Seasoning:
Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your liking. This is your chance to make it just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. These creamy Cajun pork chops are perfect with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chops may take a bit longer to cook through, so aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and check after the initial 5 minutes of searing each side.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Coconut milk is another excellent dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve This With?
These creamy Cajun pork chops pair wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!
