Smothered Pork Chops

Name: Smothered Pork Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 medium onion (sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup flour; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; Fresh thyme (optional)

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, smothered pork chops are the perfect choice. This dish features succulent pork chops cooked to perfection and drenched in a velvety gravy. It’s an ideal comfort food that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice, making it a great option for family dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

– 4 bone-in pork chops
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh thyme (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 pork chop with gravy) contains about 350 calories, 22g protein, 25g fat, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This information is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Dredge the pork chops in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the pork chops and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
5. Remove the pork chops and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced onion and garlic.
7. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Gradually stir in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate flavors.
9. Return the pork chops to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
10. Serve the pork chops with gravy, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute bone-in pork chops with boneless cuts for a quicker cooking time. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter flavor. If you prefer a thicker gravy, add a cornstarch slurry to the sauce.

Serving and Pairings

Smothered pork chops are delightful when served with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed green beans. A side of buttery cornbread also complements this dish well, enhancing the overall comfort food experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover smothered pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pork chops can lead to dryness.
Not seasoning enough can result in bland flavor.
Using too high heat may burn the gravy.
Skipping the flour dredging can make the sauce too thin.
Not scraping the skillet can miss out on flavor.

Helpful Tips

Let the pork chops rest before cooking for more juiciness.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness (145°F).
For extra flavor, marinate the chops overnight.
Experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage for variety.

FAQs

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking. They typically cook faster than bone-in chops.

What can I serve with smothered pork chops?

Smothered pork chops pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.

Can I freeze smothered pork chops?

Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

To thicken the gravy, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the simmering gravy until desired thickness is achieved.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the gravy from drying out. You can also microwave them in short intervals, covered.

Conclusion

Smothered pork chops are an excellent comfort food that combines tenderness and flavor in every bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the rich, savory gravy and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal!