Brown gravy and pork chop is a tasty dish that brings comfort to any meal! The juicy pork chop pairs perfectly with rich, savory gravy, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
When I make this dish, I can’t help but pour extra gravy on everything. It’s just so good! Serve it with mashed potatoes, and you’ll be in cozy food heaven! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are my go-to for this recipe. They stay juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops will work, just be careful not to overcook them.
Broth: You can use chicken or beef broth depending on your taste preference. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a good substitute. It keeps the flavors rich without the meat.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used to thicken the gravy. If you’re gluten-free, corn starch or a gluten-free flour blend can work great too. Just adjust the amount, as they may thicken differently!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the gravy. If you don’t have any on hand, soy sauce can work as a substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly. Alternatively, balsamic vinegar can add a nice tang.
Fresh Thyme: While optional, fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma. If you don’t have it, dried thyme can stand in – just use less, as it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops to the right doneness makes all the difference. The trick is in the timing and temperature. Here’s how you can nail it:
- Always start with seasoned chops. Salt and pepper help enhance the flavor.
- Heat up your skillet until it’s hot before adding oil and the pork chops. This ensures a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If your skillet is too crowded, the pork chops might steam instead of searing.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After cooking, let them rest for a few minutes before serving – it helps retain juices.
How to Make Brown Gravy & Pork Chop
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (approximately 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional for added richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes in total to prepare this delicious meal. This includes around 10 minutes for prep work and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s an easy and quick dish that will impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This will add flavor to the meat. Just a simple sprinkle on each side is all you need!
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the pork chops in the pan. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned and cooked through. To ensure they’re safe to eat, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a plate and set them aside.
3. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet where you cooked the pork chops, lower the heat to medium. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, throw in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing!
4. Add Flour:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about a minute to create a roux. This will help give your gravy that nice thickness.
5. Add Broth:
Gradually pour in the chicken or beef broth while whisking continuously. This is important to keep the gravy smooth and lump-free. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until it thickens up, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season the Gravy:
Add in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard for enhanced flavor. Give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Make it flavorful according to your preference!
7. Finish the Dish:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of that luscious gravy over them. If you’d like a richer taste, add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt into the gravy.
8. Serve:
Finally, garnish with fresh thyme if you fancy it. Plate the pork chops with the brown gravy on top, and you’re ready to enjoy! This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops are a great alternative. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, around 3-4 minutes per side, as they typically cook faster than bone-in chops. Make sure to check that the internal temperature still reaches 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Thyme?
No worries! You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme—just use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more potent. If you don’t have thyme at all, feel free to skip it or use another herb like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to the gravy if it thickens too much during storage.
