These juicy pork chops are cooked to perfection and smothered in a creamy garlic sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Honestly, this dish is like a warm hug for your taste buds. I can’t help but pour extra sauce over everything—who can resist that creamy goodness? 😋
I love how easy it is to whip this up on a busy night. Just sear the chops, mix up the sauce, and dinner is ready in no time. It’s comfort food at its best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless chops or even pork tenderloin will work, but they may cook faster, so watch them closely!
Garlic: Whole garlic cloves create a rich flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using garlic powder, but you’ll miss the beautiful roasted garlic texture.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk. Just remember, it will be less rich!
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth adds depth, but store-bought works just fine. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can be substituted.
Mushrooms: While optional, they add a nice earthy flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or replace with spinach for extra color and nutrients.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Pork Chops?
The searing process is key to locking in flavor. Start with a hot pan, but not too hot that it burns the oil—medium-high heat is perfect.
- Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel first. This helps them sear better.
- When the oil is shimmering, add the pork chops. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want space for them to brown properly.
- Just let them sit without moving for 3-4 minutes, then flip. You’re looking for that golden-brown crust!
Getting this right will elevate your dish and give you that delicious flavor everyone loves! Enjoy cooking!
Pork Chops with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 3 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Sauce:
- 10 cloves garlic, peeled but left whole
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (about 3 sprigs)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes of cooking time, totaling approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick yet delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning the pork chops with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet or cast iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the seasoned pork chops to the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Let it melt, then add the whole garlic cloves and the optional sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the garlic is golden and the mushrooms are tender and cooked through.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
5. Add Flavor:
Add the Dijon mustard (if using) and the fresh thyme sprigs to the sauce. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
6. Bring it Together:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Cover the pan loosely with a lid or foil and let everything cook together for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Final Touches:
Once the pork is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Discard the thyme sprigs and taste the sauce, adjusting seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve the pork chops topped with the creamy garlic sauce and whole garlic cloves. Enjoy your meal!
This dish is not just a delight for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Gather your loved ones and dig into this comforting, mouth-watering dish!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, boneless pork chops work just fine! Just be mindful that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so adjust the cooking time and check for doneness a little earlier.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic sauce and sear the pork chops ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and then combine and reheat when you’re ready to serve!
