French Onion Pork Chops are a tasty and easy dinner option. Juicy pork chops are topped with rich, caramelized onions and melted cheese, making each bite flavorful and comforting.
When I make these, my family can’t get enough! The savory smell fills the kitchen, and who can resist that gooey cheese? Serve it with mashed potatoes for a cozy meal everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are perfect for this recipe, as the bone adds flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops or even chicken breasts work well, just adjust cooking time as needed.
Onions: Yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you don’t have them, you can use sweet onions or red onions, keeping in mind they might change the flavor slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is what I like to use for starting the onion caramelization. If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to use a plant-based butter or olive oil instead.
Cheese: Gruyère cheese adds a punch of flavor, but Swiss cheese can be a great substitute. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, consider using plant-based cheese or skipping it altogether.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Just Right?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience. This technique brings out their natural sweetness! Start with medium-low heat and stir them occasionally to prevent burning. Here’s how:
- Heat the skillet and add butter and onions.
- Sprinkle in sugar to help with browning.
- Cook slowly for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and sweet-smelling. Don’t rush this step!
Trust me, the longer you cook them, the better they’ll taste. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
French Onion 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
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth (can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional)
- Mashed potatoes, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and around 25-30 minutes cooking. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will help enhance their flavor. Once seasoned, set them aside.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, lay the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and slightly cooked through. Once finished, transfer the chops to a plate and set aside.
3. Caramelize the Onions:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the 3 tablespoons of butter. When the butter melts, add the thinly sliced onions and the teaspoon of sugar. Stir occasionally for about 20-25 minutes. You want the onions to become soft and deeply caramelized—this takes time but is oh-so-worth it!
4. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Cook for another minute or so until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
5. Deglaze with Broth:
Next, pour in the beef broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the broth simmer and reduce by half for about 3-5 minutes.
6. Return the Chops:
Carefully return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the onions. Spoon some of the onion mixture over the tops of the chops for extra flavor.
7. Add the Cheese:
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the pork chops now. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the chops are heated through.
8. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the dish with some extra fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely presentation.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious French Onion Pork Chops hot, paired with creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables. Dig in and enjoy this comforting meal!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they typically cook faster than bone-in chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side, checking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you prefer not to use beef broth, chicken broth is a great substitute. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the taste of the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the chops juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the caramelized onions in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat them in the skillet when you’re ready to cook the pork chops.