Smothered pork chops are juicy and flavorful, covered in a rich onion gravy. This dish is comfort food at its best, perfect for a cozy dinner!
What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to make. I love serving it with mashed potatoes to soak up that tasty gravy—it’s hard to resist a second helping! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner cut, boneless chops can be used, but they may cook faster, so watch them closely.
Onion: A large yellow onion works great as it gets sweet when cooked. If you’re sensitive to onions, shallots are a milder alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but use it sparingly—about 1/4 teaspoon should suffice.
Mushrooms: These add depth to the gravy but are optional. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or substitute with bell peppers for added flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, replace it with milk or use half-and-half. Coconut cream can also be used for a dairy-free alternative, giving a subtle different flavor.
Why is Searing Important for My Pork Chops?
Searing is crucial as it locks in flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet to create a nice crust on the pork.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed to maintain high heat.
- Let the pork cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on each side before flipping.
This technique gives your pork chops a beautiful, golden brown color and enhances the overall taste of the dish, making it much more appealing!
How to Make Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about ¾-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups chicken broth (or stock)
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and roughly 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll end up with hearty, flavorful pork chops covered in a delicious gravy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry using paper towels. This helps them sear better! Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. After searing, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter is melted, toss in the chopped onions. Cook them while stirring frequently until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Add Mushrooms (Optional):
If you’re using mushrooms, add them to the skillet now. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their moisture.
5. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir well to fully coat everything. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Add the Worcestershire sauce and thyme leaves. Bring this mix to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens up nicely, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Add Cream:
Now it’s time to stir in the heavy cream or whole milk. Cook this for another 2 minutes until your gravy turns rich and creamy.
7. Smother the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon a little gravy over the tops. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil, reduce the heat to low, and let simmer for 10-15 minutes. You want the pork chops to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and become tender.
8. Serve:
Once cooked, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a few extra thyme sprigs for that final touch. Serve your smothered pork chops hot alongside some delicious mashed potatoes, rice, or any of your favorite side dishes to soak up that wonderful gravy!
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Smothered Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops for this recipe. Just be aware that they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whole milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream, which adds a unique flavor while keeping it creamy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover smothered pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep the gravy moist.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Sear the pork chops first and then transfer them to a slow cooker. Add the onion, garlic, mushrooms, broth, and cream. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender and flavorful!
