Savor the Flavor: Skillet Pork Chops with Mushroom Sauce
Indulge in a culinary delight with our Skillet Pork Chops with Mushroom Sauce recipe. These tender pork chops are seared to perfection and topped with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. With a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, these skillet pork chops are sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients:
- 4-6 pork chops
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dry oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 3 cups spinach, chopped and red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Season Pork Chops: Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and dry oregano on both sides.
- Sear Pork Chops: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender, about 5-6 minutes.
- Prepare Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Add Spinach (Optional): If using spinach, add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return Pork Chops: Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and spoon the mushroom sauce over them.
- Simmer: Allow the pork chops to simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve: Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a serving platter and spoon the mushroom sauce over the top. Garnish with red pepper flakes, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Use Bone-In or Boneless Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops for this recipe, depending on your preference.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the mushroom sauce.
- Substitute Heavy Cream: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use chicken instead of pork chops? A: Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the pork chops in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best to enjoy the pork chops with mushroom sauce fresh from the skillet, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked pork chops and mushroom sauce separately in the refrigerator, then reheat them on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover pork chops with mushroom sauce for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of this recipe, omit the optional spinach and serve the pork chops with mushroom sauce over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta. Be sure to use full-fat heavy cream and check the carb content of the Parmesan cheese to ensure it fits within your macros.
Low-Carb Version:
To reduce the carb content of this dish, omit the optional spinach and serve the pork chops with mushroom sauce over sautéed or steamed low-carb vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our Skillet Pork Chops with Mushroom Sauce recipe is a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender pork chops, creamy mushroom sauce, and flavorful seasoning, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb option, or simply craving a comforting meal, these skillet pork chops are sure to hit the spot. So, fire up your skillet and treat yourself to a taste of culinary bliss with this irresistible dish!
