These creamy bacon pork chops come together quickly for a tasty meal! With crispy bacon and a rich sauce, they make dinner feel extra special without all the fuss.
If you’re like me, adding bacon to anything is a win! Just sear the chops, whip up that creamy sauce, and dinner is ready in a snap. Perfect for those busy nights! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture, but boneless chops will work too. Just adjust the cooking time a bit since they cook faster.
Bacon: I recommend regular bacon for the best flavor. However, turkey bacon is a lighter option, though it may not crisp up as much.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich sauce, but you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Chicken Broth: If you’re out, vegetable broth or even water can work well. Just keep in mind it might change the flavor slightly.
Herbs: If you don’t have thyme, Italian seasoning can be a good alternative. Fresh herbs really brighten up the dish.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
To ensure your pork chops are juicy and tender, focus on the cooking time and method. Start by searing the chops to create a nice golden crust. Here’s how:
- Pat the chops dry to help them sear well. Season liberally with salt and pepper.
- Use medium-high heat for a good sear, about 3-4 minutes on each side. This gives flavor and locks in juices.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach 145°F for safety. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving to maintain juiciness.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have perfectly cooked pork chops every time! Happy cooking!
Creamy Bacon Pork Chops in 30 Minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have everything done in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting your pork chops dry using paper towels. This will help them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, but leave the delicious bacon fat in the skillet to add flavor to the pork chops!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
If you need to, add olive oil to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high and carefully add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown. Once they’re cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the remaining fat in the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds great flavor!).
5. Add Cream and Seasonings:
Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, thyme, and the cooked bacon. Let this mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in the flour at this point and let it simmer a little longer until thickened.
6. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of that creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 5-7 minutes. Make sure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe eating.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, garnish the pork chops with fresh chopped parsley and serve them with the creamy sauce drizzled on top. Pair them with mashed potatoes and steamed Brussels sprouts or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.
This recipe yields tender pork chops smothered in a creamy bacon sauce that’s bursting with flavor—all ready in just about 30 minutes! Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Creamy Bacon Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well, but they will cook slightly faster. Adjust the cooking time to about 2-3 minutes per side for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk works well too, though it may change the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
What Sides Pair Well With This Dish?
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce! Steamed vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a simple salad are great options too for a balanced meal.
