Smothered Pork Chops are a deliciously comforting dish that features bone-in pork chops cooked to perfection in a rich, savory gravy. This classic Southern recipe combines tender pork chops with a flavorful sauce made from chicken broth, heavy cream, onions, and garlic. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and learn how to make Smothered Pork Chops step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops, bone-in preferred
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
- Season and Flour:
- In a shallow dish, combine 1/2 cup of the all-purpose flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and dredge them in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Reserve the remaining flour for the gravy.
Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops
- Heat Oil:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown Chops:
- Add the floured pork chops to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer the pork chops to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Melt Butter:
- In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and melt over medium heat.
- Cook Onions:
- Add the sliced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
- Add Remaining Flour:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of flour into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Chicken Broth:
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the gravy begins to thicken.
- Add Cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream and season the gravy with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Simmer the Pork Chops
- Return Pork Chops:
- Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the top of the pork chops.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and the gravy is thickened.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Smothered Pork Chops hot, with the rich gravy spooned over the top. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite sides!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops provide the best flavor and tenderness. You can also use boneless chops, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Gravy: For a thicker gravy, cook it a bit longer to reduce it further. If it becomes too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Seasoning: Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Variations
Spicy Smothered Pork Chops
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.
Mushroom Smothered Pork Chops
- Add Mushrooms:
- Stir in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions for added flavor and texture.
Herb Smothered Pork Chops
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the gravy for a fragrant twist.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Mashed Potatoes:
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy.
- With Rice:
- Pair with steamed white rice or a flavorful rice pilaf.
Vegetables
- With Green Beans:
- Serve with sautéed green beans or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- With Collard Greens:
- Pair with Southern-style collard greens for a classic comfort food combination.
Beverages
- With Red Wine:
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, for a perfect pairing.
- With Iced Tea:
- Serve with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, Smothered Pork Chops can be made ahead of time and reheated gently in the skillet or oven before serving. The flavors often improve after sitting for a day.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Smothered Pork Chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops? A: Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but the cooking time will be shorter. Check for doneness after about 20 minutes of simmering.
Q: Can I freeze the Smothered Pork Chops? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I add other herbs? A: Yes, feel free to add other herbs such as rosemary, sage, or parsley for different flavor profiles.
Smothered Pork Chops are a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender pork chops, rich gravy, and savory flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Smothered Pork Chops with your family and friends!
