ADVERTISEMENT
How to Make Smothered Pork Chops:
1. Season the Pork Chops
Start by seasoning your pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides. This simple seasoning blend enhances the natural flavor of the pork while ensuring a delicious base for the gravy. Once seasoned, dredge the pork chops lightly in flour to create a thin coating. This will help the pork develop a nice crust and also thicken the gravy later.
2. Brown the Pork Chops
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This step helps lock in flavor and juices, making the pork chops tender. After browning, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, as they will finish cooking in the gravy.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onions. Sauté the onions for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and start to caramelize. This will add a depth of flavor to your gravy. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Make the Gravy
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Let it cook for about 1 minute to form a roux (a thickening base for the gravy). Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to ensure there are no lumps. Then, pour in the heavy cream (if using) and stir to create a creamy consistency. Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the gravy to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Smother the Pork Chops
Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the pork chops to coat them well. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the pork chops are done, remove the skillet from the heat and give everything one last stir. Serve the smothered pork chops on a platter with plenty of the rich gravy spooned over the top. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up all the delicious gravy.
Tips for the Best Smothered Pork Chops:
- Bone-In Pork Chops: For the best flavor and moisture, use bone-in pork chops. The bone helps retain moisture during cooking, making the meat more tender.
- Don’t Overcook: Pork chops can dry out if overcooked. Make sure to monitor the cooking time, and always check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Customize the Gravy: Feel free to add extra herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for more flavor. You can also swap the chicken broth for beef broth for a heartier taste.
- Thicken the Gravy: If your gravy needs to be thicker, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the gravy to thicken it up.
Conclusion
Smothered pork chops are the epitome of comfort food. With tender, juicy pork chops smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy, this dish is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require hours of cooking time.
Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or just on its own, smothered pork chops will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes. The savory gravy, tender pork, and simple ingredients make for a meal that is both indulgent and comforting. So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a warm, hearty dinner that’s full of flavor!
ADVERTISEMENT
