These juicy pork chops are seared to perfection and topped with a rich, flavorful pan gravy. It’s a hearty dish that’s great for any night of the week!
Trust me, the gravy is the star here—it’s perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes. I can’t resist having seconds, and I know you won’t either! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture. If you prefer, boneless chops work too; just be cautious not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily.
Oil: I use vegetable oil for searing, but olive oil adds a nice flavor as well. You could use any high-heat oil like canola or avocado oil.
Onion: A small onion is key for flavor. If you don’t have one, shallots or even leeks could work as a tasty alternative.
Mushrooms: Optional but add great umami. For substitutes, try finely diced bell peppers or skip it altogether if you’re not a fan.
Chicken Broth: If you want to keep it lighter or vegetarian, vegetable broth is a great substitute. Just watch for added flavors.
Cream: Heavy cream is rich and luscious, but half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk can work well for a lighter sauce or dairy-free option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Searing My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops creates a delicious crust and keeps them juicy inside. Follow these steps for nice, golden chops:
- Make sure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat them dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface can prevent a good sear.
- Use a hot skillet (medium-high heat) and let the oil shimmer before adding the pork chops.
- Avoid crowding the pan, as it can lower the temperature and result in steaming rather than searing.
With practice, you’ll master the art of the perfect sear every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Pork Chops with Pan Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or stock)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important for getting a good sear! Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to make them tasty.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the pork chops and cook until they’re golden brown on both sides and fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on the thickness. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and place them on a warm plate to rest.
3. Make the Gravy Base:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. When it melts, toss in the chopped onions (and the mushrooms if you’re using them). Sauté these until they’re softened and lightly browned, which takes about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add Garlic:
Quickly stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful aroma.
5. Create the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine everything. Allow it to cook for 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour flavor—it’ll help thicken the gravy later!
6. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until it thickens slightly. We want a nice, rich consistency here!
7. Add Cream and Thyme:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and thyme leaves. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the gravy is smooth and velvety. It will start to look so good!
8. Combine with Pork Chops:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious gravy over the top. Let them cook for another 2 minutes so they can soak up the flavors and heat through.
9. Serve:
When everything is ready, transfer the pork chops to serving plates. Generously spoon the pan gravy over each chop and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. It’s not just pretty; it adds extra flavor!
10. Enjoy!
Serve hot with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, and dive right into this hearty, savory dish!
Enjoy your tender pork chops swimming in delicious, savory pan gravy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just be cautious with the cooking time, as boneless chops typically cook faster and may dry out if overcooked. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Can I Make This Dish Without Mushrooms?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, simply leave them out. You can add extra onions or even some diced bell peppers for added flavor and texture instead!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep the gravy from getting too thick.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Pork Chops?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the gravy!
