Smothered pork chops are juicy, tender chops cooked in a savory gravy that will make your taste buds dance! They’re perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Who doesn’t love meat swimming in delicious sauce? I could eat this every day. Serve it with mashed potatoes or rice for a meal that feels like a warm hug!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chops work too, but watch the cooking time, as they cook faster.
Onions: Yellow onions give a sweet and savory base. You can swap them for shallots for a milder flavor or red onions for a bit of color.
Mushrooms: I used button mushrooms for their mild taste. Feel free to replace them with cremini or even shiitake for a deeper flavor.
Thyme: Dried thyme is great, but fresh thyme can really elevate the dish. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or Italian seasoning can work too.
Butter: Adding butter at the end enriches the sauce. If you want a healthier version, you can skip it or use a bit of olive oil instead.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Browned?
Browning your pork chops is key to developing flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the pork chops dry; moisture will prevent a nice sear.
- Season with salt and pepper generously; seasoning adds flavor right from the start.
- Use a hot skillet but not too hot; medium-high heat is usually best. This way, they’ll brown nicely without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; let them have space to cook evenly. If you have more than fit, brown them in batches.
Remember, patience is key. Let them cook undisturbed until they’re golden brown, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. This creates a delicious crust!
Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons butter for extra richness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to cook, depending on the thickness of your pork chops. You’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This is super important for getting that nice sear! Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper—don’t be shy!
2. Brown the Pork Chops:
Next, heat your olive oil in a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes each side. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set them aside for now.
3. Cook the Onions and Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add in the sliced onions and mushrooms. Cook them until they’re soft and browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When they’re nearly done, add the minced garlic and stir it in for another minute. This will bring out wonderful flavors!
4. Make the Gravy Base:
Now, sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture. Stir it continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux and get rid of the raw flour taste. This will help thicken your gravy!
5. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to avoid any lumps. Add in the Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Keep stirring until everything thickens and starts to bubble—that’s your delicious gravy!
6. Simmer with Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, placing them right in the gravy. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes. This will help the chops cook through and become tender.
7. Finish and Serve:
For an extra touch of richness, stir in the butter at the end. Taste your gravy and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color!
8. Enjoy!
Serve those smothered pork chops hot alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side to soak up all that delicious gravy. Enjoy your flavorful, tender smothered pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests. Boneless chops can still turn out tender and flavorful!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. Just remember that using broth will add more flavor, so opt for a good quality option if you can!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the simmering step, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the gravy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Enjoy it again for a quick meal!