Smothered Pork Chops

For the Gravy:

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or pork broth, if you prefer)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Smothered Pork Chops

Making smothered pork chops is simple and doesn’t take long to prepare. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to serve.

Step 1: Season the Pork Chops

Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Let the pork chops sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the seasonings to absorb into the meat.

Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. You want the chops to have a nice sear, but don’t worry about cooking them all the way through yet since they’ll finish cooking in the gravy.

Once browned, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt, scraping up any browned bits left from the pork chops (this adds tons of flavor to the gravy). Add the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.

Next, sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to combine. This will help thicken the gravy. Let the flour cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste.

Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Smother the 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, making sure they’re well-coated. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for about 20-25 minutes on low heat, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pork chops are tender and fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the pork chops with a generous amount of the gravy over the top. Pair them with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetable side dishes, and you’ll have a meal that’s guaranteed to impress.

Tips for the Perfect Smothered Pork Chops

• Use Bone-In Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops tend to stay more tender and juicy during cooking. However, boneless pork chops can also work well in this recipe—just be sure to monitor the cooking time.
• Don’t Overcook the Pork Chops: Since the pork chops will continue cooking in the gravy, you don’t need to worry about them being fully cooked when you remove them from the skillet. Just get a good sear on both sides, then simmer in the gravy until they’re perfectly tender.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for an extra kick.
• Customize the Gravy: The onion gravy is flavorful on its own, but feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms or garlic for extra depth of flavor. You can also use beef or vegetable broth for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

Smothered pork chops are so versatile and can be served with a variety of sides to round out your meal. Here are some great options to pair with this savory dish:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy mashed potatoes soak up the delicious gravy, making them the perfect side.
• Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice is a great way to enjoy the flavorful gravy.
• Steamed Vegetables: Pair the richness of the pork chops with some green beans, broccoli, or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal.
• Cornbread: For a true Southern-style meal, serve the pork chops with a slice of warm cornbread.

Conclusion

Smothered Pork Chops are a comforting, hearty meal that will satisfy your cravings for rich, flavorful food. The combination of tender, juicy pork chops with a savory onion gravy is a match made in comfort-food heaven. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings with family and friends.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection. So don’t wait—try this Smothered Pork Chops recipe today and experience the magic of this classic dish!