If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dinner that will impress your family, Smothered Baked Pork Chops are a perfect choice. This classic Southern dish features juicy pork chops smothered in a rich, savory gravy, baked to tender perfection. It’s a wonderful, homestyle meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for Sunday dinner.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or ovenproof skillet.
- Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- Prepare the Gravy: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced onions and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until softened and caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Bake: Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the chops to cover them. If your skillet isn’t ovenproof, transfer everything to a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with plenty of the rich gravy.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pork Chops: Both bone-in and boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Bone-in chops tend to stay juicier, while boneless chops cook faster.
- Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce.
- Searing for Flavor: Searing the pork chops before baking helps lock in moisture and adds flavor. Don’t skip this step!
Variations
- Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions for a delicious mushroom gravy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
- Herb Butter: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops. Keep in mind that boneless chops may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around the 20-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze Smothered Baked Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops and gravy. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What should I serve with Smothered Baked Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the delicious gravy. Steamed vegetables or a green salad also make great sides.
Smothered Baked Pork Chops are a comforting and hearty dish that delivers big on flavor. The tender pork chops, paired with the rich, creamy onion gravy, create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want a taste of classic Southern comfort, these smothered pork chops are sure to satisfy. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm, savory goodness that will keep everyone coming back for more!
