Hey there! I can’t wait to share this Smothered Pork Chops recipe with you! It’s one of those comforting dishes that makes me feel all warm and cozy inside. My hubby and I love it for those busy weeknights when we just want to enjoy something hearty and delicious. The best part? The savory gravy just wraps around the juicy pork chops, and it’s perfect over rice or mashed potatoes. Seriously, your taste buds will be doing a happy dance!
I discovered this gem a couple of years ago while searching for something different to make, and it quickly became a family favorite. Whenever I put this dish on the table, you can bet I’ll get big smiles all around! Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for ages. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation! If you love cozy meals, you might also enjoy my creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes as a perfect sidekick! Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
- Indulgent creamy sauce that elevates every bite
- Rich flavors from smoked paprika and Worcestershire sauce
- Perfectly tender pork chops, cooked to juicy perfection
- Easy one-skillet meal for minimal cleanup
- Quick to prepare—dinner on the table in just 30 minutes!
- Customizable with your favorite spices or veggies
- Great served over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the gravy
This hearty dish combines savory ingredients for a cozy meal that feels like comfort food at its best!
How to Make Smothered Pork Chops
This smothered pork chops recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home, and the rich, creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with some mashed potatoes or rice. Let’s get cooking!
What You’ll Need:
- Bone-in pork chops – 4 chops, about 1-inch thick. I like bone-in for extra flavor and juiciness!
- Salt and pepper – to taste. Freshly cracked black pepper gives a lovely bite!
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons. I recommend using a quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor.
- Onion – 1 medium onion, sliced. Sweet onions work beautifully here!
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced. You can never go wrong with garlicky goodness!
- Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced. Button or cremini mushrooms add great flavor and texture.
- Beef broth – 1 cup. I prefer Swanson’s for its robust flavor.
- Heavy cream – 1 cup. Horizon Organic cream is my go-to for a rich, luscious sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon, to enhance the savory flavor.
- Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon, for that lovely smokiness.
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish) – adds a nice pop of color and freshness!
The Directions:
- Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook it for about 3-4 minutes until softened. This will create a lovely base for your sauce!
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, continuing to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is where all the flavor is!
- Next, stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.
- Once done, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds not just taste but a lovely presentation!
Serve those smothered pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up all that luscious gravy. Don’t forget, you can spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper if you’re in the mood for a little heat. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops tend to cook faster. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side and simmer in the sauce until they’re cooked through, usually around 10-15 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’d like a lighter option or are out of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken. Alternatively, coconut cream can work well for a dairy-free version, just be aware of the coconut flavor it will impart!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and sauce a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the simmering stage, then let it cool and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove until warmed through.
