Discover the rich, comforting flavors of Smothered Pork Chops with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner, these pork chops are seasoned to perfection and smothered in a creamy, savory gravy that’s sure to please the entire family.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
- 1 pound (500g) bone-in pork chops, about 3/4-1 inch thick
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Gravy:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- Pinch of salt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth, divided
- 3/4 cup buttermilk or heavy cream
- Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Season the Pork Chops:
- In a small bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, seasoning salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork chops.
- Dredge in Flour:
- Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each pork chop in the flour, coating both sides, and shake off any excess flour.
- Sear the Pork Chops:
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Gravy:
- Sauté the Onions:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Thyme:
- Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme to the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Skillet:
- Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the broth to reduce slightly.
- Create the Creamy Gravy:
- Stir in the buttermilk or heavy cream and the remaining chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
Finishing the Dish:
- Return Pork Chops to Skillet:
- Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the pork chops.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve the smothered pork chops hot, with the creamy onion gravy ladled over the top.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
1. Pork Chop Selection:
- Bone-in pork chops are recommended for this recipe as they tend to stay juicier during cooking. However, boneless pork chops can also be used if preferred.
2. Gravy Consistency:
- If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it out with a bit more chicken broth or water until the desired consistency is achieved.
3. Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these smothered pork chops with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the delicious gravy. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad makes for a complete meal.
4. Extra Vegetables:
- For added flavor and nutrition, consider adding sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the onion mixture when making the gravy.
5. Low-Carb Version:
- For a low-carb version, replace the flour with almond flour or a low-carb flour alternative. Use heavy cream instead of buttermilk to keep the carb count low.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can prepare the pork chops and gravy ahead of time and reheat them gently on the stove. The flavors will meld together even more as they sit.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
- A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops and gravy. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
- A: Yes, this recipe works well with chicken thighs or beef steaks. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is cooked through.
Q: How do I prevent the pork chops from becoming tough?
- A: Searing the pork chops before simmering in the gravy helps to lock in moisture. Also, simmer the pork chops over low heat to keep them tender.
Q: What can I use instead of buttermilk?
- A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use an equal amount of heavy cream or make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Smothered Pork Chops are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The rich, creamy gravy paired with perfectly seasoned pork chops creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve with your favorite sides and relish the deliciousness of this classic dish!
