If you are craving a comforting, flavorful, and downright satisfying meal, this Smothered Pork Chops Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender pork chops, perfectly browned and then lovingly bathed in a rich, creamy onion gravy that carries just the right blend of spices and savory depth. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug from the very first bite, combining simple ingredients with bold flavors for a truly memorable dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Smothered Pork Chops Recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients you probably already have on hand. Each component plays a crucial role: from the seasoning that gives the chops their kick, to the flour that thickens the sauce into a silky dream. The balance between the hearty pork and creamy gravy is what makes this dish unforgettable.
- 8 ounces boneless pork chops: Choose chops that are about ¾-inch thick for ideal cooking and tenderness.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: This is key for dredging and for creating the luscious gravy.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the pork.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the richness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings an extra layer of savory depth.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a subtle smoky aroma that elevates the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for getting that golden sear on the pork chops.
- 1 onion (diced): Slowly caramelized to create a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic intensity to the gravy.
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth: The hearty liquid that forms the backbone of the sauce without overpowering.
- ½ cup heavy cream (room temperature): Gives the gravy its luxuriously creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and a bit of tang to round out the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (plus more for garnish): Provides a fresh contrast and a pop of color on the plate.
How to Make Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
Step 1: Pat the Pork Chops Dry
Start by drying your boneless pork chops with paper towels. This might seem like a small step, but it’s essential for creating that beautiful, golden crust when you sear them. Moisture is the enemy of browning, so be thorough!
Step 2: Mix Your Seasoned Flour
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This seasoning blend will coat your chops with layers of flavor and help thicken the sauce later on.
Step 3: Dredge the Pork Chops
Carefully coat each pork chop in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Save about ¼ cup of the dry mixture for thickening the sauce later – it’s your secret weapon for that perfect gravy texture.
Step 4: Sear the Pork Chops
Pour olive oil into a cast-iron skillet or heavy sauté pan and heat it over medium heat. Add the pork chops and cook them until each side is deeply golden brown, around 3 minutes per side. Your kitchen will start smelling incredible, and you’ll know you’re on the right track. Once done, set the chops aside.
Step 5: Cook the Onions and Garlic
In the same pan, add diced onions and cook them until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Next, toss in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant – you want to be careful here because garlic can burn quickly.
Step 6: Make the Sauce Base
Whisk in the reserved flour mixture into the onions and garlic, cooking for about 30 to 60 seconds to get rid of any raw flour taste. Slowly drizzle in the beef broth while whisking constantly, allowing the sauce to thicken as it simmers gently for 5 minutes. This is the moment your sauce really begins to develop its rich, velvety body.
Step 7: Finish the Sauce and Cook Through
Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley, giving the gravy a luxurious finish. Return the pork chops to the pan, spoon the sauce over the top, cover, and let everything cook together for 3 to 5 minutes until the pork is perfectly cooked through and tender.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle a bit more fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant, fresh look and a pop of color that really makes the dish inviting. Your Smothered Pork Chops Recipe is now ready to delight everyone at your table!
How to Serve Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the classic finishing touch, adding both brightness and a subtle herbal note. If you want to get fancy, a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top can add a wonderful crunch contrast to the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
These pork chops love hearty, comforting sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice soak up that delicious gravy like a dream. For a veggie option, roasted green beans or sautéed spinach bring a nice texture and freshness to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating individual pork chops with a generous ladle of sauce and a sprinkle of parsley. For a family-style meal, serve the chops in the pan or a large dish topped with gravy so everyone can help themselves. Adding a small lemon wedge on the side offers a light acidic contrast if you want to brighten a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover smothered pork chops are fantastic and keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors really deepen after resting overnight. Just be sure to store the pork chops and sauce together to keep that signature moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze this Smothered Pork Chops Recipe by placing the cooked pork chops and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 2 months. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the pork chops and sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid the microwave if you can to keep the pork tender and the sauce silky. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce becomes too thick during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chops can add extra flavor, but adjust cooking time slightly longer to ensure they are cooked through without drying out.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but the gravy won’t be as rich and creamy. Adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream can help maintain creaminess if needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written because of the all-purpose flour, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging and thickening to make the dish gluten-free without compromising flavor.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the pork chops first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cream and parsley near the end of cooking to keep them fresh and flavorful.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
They’re done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The chops should be juicy and tender but not pink in the middle. Using a meat thermometer guarantees perfect results every time.
Final Thoughts
This Smothered Pork Chops Recipe is a wonderful way to turn humble ingredients into a meal that feels hearty, indulgent, and full of love. Its rich, creamy gravy envelops tender pork chops for a dish that’s just begging to be shared at the dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, I can’t recommend it enough—go ahead and give it a try, you won’t regret it!
Print
Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Smothered Pork Chops recipe features tender boneless pork chops coated in a flavorful seasoned flour, seared to a golden brown, and simmered in a creamy, savory onion gravy. Perfect for a comforting and hearty dinner, this dish combines rich flavors with a simple stovetop cooking method.
Ingredients
Meat
- 8 ounces boneless pork chops
Seasoning and Coating
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry to ensure the flour coating adheres properly.
- Mix the Flour Seasoning: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create a flavorful dredge.
- Dredge the Pork: Coat each pork chop thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Reserve ¼ cup of the flour mixture for the sauce.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the pork chops and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until they develop a deep golden crust. Remove the pork chops from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add diced onion and cook until translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Create the Roux Base: Whisk the reserved ¼ cup flour into the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 30 to 60 seconds. This will thicken the sauce.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Slowly whisk in the low-sodium beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Finish the Sauce and Cook Pork: Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley. Return the pork chops to the pan, spooning sauce over them. Cover and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the pork is fully cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley on top before serving for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Ensure pork chops are patted dry before dredging for a better crust formation.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and better searing results.
- Be careful not to overcook the pork chops to keep them juicy and tender.
- Heavy cream should be at room temperature to incorporate smoothly without curdling.
- Low-sodium beef broth helps control the saltiness of the dish.
- Can be served with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
