These smothered pork chops are juicy and covered in a rich, tasty gravy. They make your dinner feel cozy and special, almost like a hug on a plate!
Pair them with some mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that yummy gravy. Trust me, you’ll want to make this dish again and again! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless chops, but they may dry out faster. Sometimes, I enjoy using pork steaks for a different texture.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add depth to the gravy. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or use canned mushrooms for convenience. Cremini or button mushrooms work best in this dish.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for more control over the saltiness. Vegetable broth is a great option for a vegetarian twist. Stock adds richness too, which can enhance flavors.
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives great flavor, but dried thyme works too if fresh isn’t available. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Tender?
Getting tender pork chops is all about cooking them just right. Overcooking can lead to dryness. Here’s how to do it:
- Season the chops well before cooking for added flavor.
- Heat the skillet until hot before searing. This helps lock in juices.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned, then remove them to avoid overcooking.
- Simmer the chops in the gravy gently to allow flavors to meld without drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer; look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for best results.
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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of cooking, for a total of about 50-55 minutes. You’ll sear the pork chops, make the gravy, and let everything simmer together for a comforting meal. A perfect way to warm up your dinner table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This adds flavor right at the beginning!
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Add the seasoned pork chops and sear them until they’re nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes for each side. Once browned, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside for later.
3. Make the Gravy:
Now, turn the heat down to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, which takes about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking them until they’re tender and browned, about 5 minutes. Yum!
4. Thicken the Gravy:
Next, sprinkle the flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This helps cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens nicely.
5. Flavor It Up:
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it) and thyme leaves. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. This is where your gravy gets its fantastic flavor!
6. Simmer the Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the thick gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let them simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes. You want the chops to cook through until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and become tender.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the pork chops are perfectly cooked, garnish them with freshly chopped parsley and thyme sprigs for a pop of color. Serve these delicious, smothered pork chops hot, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side to soak up all that rich gravy. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook a little faster, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or even water with a little bouillon added. This will still provide a flavorful base for the gravy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and gravy ahead of time. Just cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving to retain flavor and moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of Mushrooms?
If mushrooms aren’t your thing, feel free to omit them, or try adding diced bell peppers or zucchini for additional veggies. Just sauté them along with the onions for added texture and flavor!
