Smothered pork chops are juicy and tender, covered in a tasty gravy made from onions and seasonings. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms you right up!
When I make these chops, I drizzle tons of that rich gravy all over mashed potatoes. It’s just comforting goodness that makes me feel all cozy inside! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are perfect for this dish, as the bone adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they’ll cook faster!
Onion: A medium onion is key for a sweet, flavorful base. If you’re not a fan of onions, try using shallots or even scallions for a milder taste.
Bacon: Adding bacon crumbles is optional, but they bring a smoky flavor. For a healthier option, skip the bacon or use turkey bacon instead!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes a rich gravy, whole milk is a lighter alternative. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk—just be aware it may change the taste a bit.
How Do You Achieve Tender Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops so they are tender takes a bit of care, but it’s simple! Here’s how:
- First, soak the pork chops in seasoning for the best flavor.
- When browning, don’t rush! A high heat for a short time helps seal in juices.
- Once browned, cover and cook on low heat to keep them from drying out—this is key to tenderness!
- Finally, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 145°F is ideal.
With these tips, you’ll have the perfect smothered pork chops that’s sure to impress! Enjoy!
How to Make Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil or bacon grease
For The Gravy:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 2 strips cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp butter
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you should plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chops:
Begin by seasoning your pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This helps to build flavor from the very start!
2. Dredging for Crunch:
Next, take the flour and spread it in a large shallow dish. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, ensuring they are well coated. After that, shake off any excess flour.
3. Browning the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat up your vegetable oil or bacon grease over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, transfer the chops to a plate and set them aside.
4. Preparing the Base for the Gravy:
Now, in the same skillet, add the butter and then toss in the chopped onions. Cook them over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
5. Adding Flavor with Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. This will really enhance the savory goodness!
6. Creating the Gravy Base:
Stir in any leftover flour from dredging along with the paprika. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken your gravy.
7. Making it Saucy:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to release those tasty brown bits. This adds lots of flavor to your gravy!
8. Adding Creaminess:
Next, stir in the heavy cream (or milk), dried thyme if you’re using it, and crumbled bacon for a rich, smoky flavor. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
9. Simmering the Chops:
Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, arranging them so they’re nestled into the gravy. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through.
10. Final Touches:
Once cooked, taste your gravy and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Top off your dish with some fresh chopped parsley for color! Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or your choice of side, with plenty of that delicious gravy poured on top!
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful smothered pork chops, perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used for this recipe, but remember to cook them for a slightly shorter time since they tend to cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole milk is a great substitute! For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist.
Can I Prepare the Chops in Advance?
You can prep the pork chops and even make the gravy a day ahead! Just cook through step 9 and store everything in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve, making sure they are heated thoroughly.
