Smothered Pork Chops

Name: Smothered Pork Chops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 pork chops; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I first tried making smothered pork chops, I was amazed by how comforting and flavorful they turned out. I love how the tender pork absorbs the rich gravy, creating a dish that's simply irresistible. Each bite is filled with savory goodness that takes me back to family dinners. This recipe, with its straightforward cooking process, is perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Prepare to impress your loved ones with this delightful dish that will leave them asking for seconds!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-28T14:08:33.783Z

Making smothered pork chops in my kitchen was a delightful surprise. I had initially thought that it was a complicated dish, but I learned that with just the right technique, I could whip up a gourmet meal in under an hour. The key is to sear the chops first, creating a caramelized flavor that gets enhanced when simmering in the gravy!

This dish brings such warmth and nostalgia every time I serve it. I remember the first time I paired it with creamy mashed potatoes, and I knew I had found a match made in heaven. The savory gravy coats every bite beautifully, enveloping the chops in a rich sauce that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory gravy that elevates the tender pork chops
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup required
Perfect balance of flavors; great for any season

Perfecting the Pork Chops

For the best results, choose bone-in pork chops, as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than their boneless counterparts. Aim for chops that are about 1 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. Searing the pork until golden brown not only enhances the flavor but also creates a rich base for the gravy. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet, which can lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of searing.

Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking. Pork is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you find your chops are cooking too quickly during the simmering process, reduce the heat further. This gentle cooking will allow them to absorb all the delicious flavors from the gravy without drying out.

The Gravy: A Flavor Booster

The combination of sautéed onions and garlic adds depth to the gravy, making it the star of the dish. I recommend waiting until the onions are slightly translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to ensure they impart their sweetness into the sauce. When you add the chicken broth, consider using low-sodium options so you have full control over the seasoning of the final dish.A little pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the gravies flavor profile if you enjoy a bit of heat.

When it comes to the heavy cream, it not only thickens the sauce but also adds a luxurious mouthfeel that beautifully coats the pork chops. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute, but be cautious of low-fat options that might separate in cooking. Allow the gravy to simmer and thicken for the best consistency; it should be glossy and cling to the back of a spoon.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious smothered pork chops!

Main Ingredients

4 pork chops
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for perfectly smothered pork chops.

Sear the Pork Chops

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chops and set aside.

Prepare the Gravy

In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Simmer the Chops

Reduce the heat to low, return the pork chops to the skillet, and pour in the heavy cream. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until the pork is cooked through and tender.

Serve

Once done, plate the pork chops and generously spoon the gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your homemade smothered pork chops!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of garlic and herbs for a few hours prior to cooking. This will enhance their taste even further.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be easily made ahead of time, making it a great option for gatherings or busy weeknights. After preparing the pork chops and gravy, let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the gravy becomes too thick.

If you're thinking of freezing the smothered pork chops, they’ll keep well for about 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then heat gently on the stove. This dish's flavors meld beautifully over time, and I find that it’s just as delicious, if not better, the next day!

Serving Suggestions

Smothered pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic options include creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles that soak up the tasty gravy. For a healthier twist, consider serving them alongside sautéed green beans or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.

For a heartier meal, you can also serve the pork chops over rice or polenta, giving the dish a comforting homestyle vibe. Don’t forget to sprinkle some additional fresh parsley on top before serving to enhance the visual appeal and add a hint of freshness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add more flavor, just ensure to adjust cooking time if they are thicker.

→ What sides pair well with smothered pork chops?

Creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice are excellent choices to soak up the delicious gravy.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and gently reheat before serving. The flavors will only improve!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove for best results.