Smothered Pork Chops are juicy and flavorful, cooked in a rich gravy that makes every bite so satisfying. The mix of tender meat and delicious sauce is a great comfort food hit!
I love serving these with mashed potatoes to soak up that yummy gravy. Honestly, who can resist that? It’s like a hug on a plate! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for this dish as the bone adds flavor and keeps them juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops or even chicken thighs work well too!
Seasonings: The mix of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder creates a great base flavor. Feel free to play around; smoked paprika adds a nice twist, or you can use Italian seasoning for more herbs.
Onions: A large onion gives sweetness and depth to the gravy. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can substitute with shallots or even leeks for a milder taste.
Chicken Broth: This adds a rich base to the gravy. Vegetable broth or even beef broth can be swapped in if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops properly is key to getting that beautiful brown crust while sealing in the juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated properly before adding the oil and chops—medium-high heat is where you want to be!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This allows for even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Only flip the chops once. Let them sear well on one side before turning—this can take about 4 minutes.
- Once seared, remove them and let them rest while you cook the onions. This helps to keep them juicy!
With these tips in mind, your smothered pork chops will come out tender and flavorful every time!
Smothered Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and seasoning the pork chops, and the cooking will take around 20-30 minutes for perfect results.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
In a shallow dish, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Season both sides of each pork chop evenly with this mixture, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor.
2. Dredge the Chops:
Lightly coat each pork chop in flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a lovely crust when seared.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. After they are done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Caramelize the Onions:
Lower the heat to medium and add the sliced onions to the same skillet. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized—about 7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a sweet flavor in your gravy.
5. Make the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the flour over the cooked onions and stir to coat evenly. Let this cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
6. Add Broth and Flavor:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift the tasty browned bits. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and thyme for extra flavor.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the seared pork chops back into the skillet, nestling them into the gravy and onions. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and the gravy has thickened nicely.
8. Final Touches:
Once done, stir in the butter for a rich finish. Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your smothered pork chops with freshly chopped parsley. These chops are fantastic served over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles, soaking up that delicious gravy!
Enjoy your hearty meal! 😋
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit quicker than bone-in chops. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side for searing.
How Do I Reheat Leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, place the pork chops and gravy in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help keep them moist. Cover and warm until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Serve With Smothered Pork Chops?
These smothered pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the creamy gravy. You can also serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal.