Delicious Smothered Pork Chops Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

A Hearty and Flavorful Classic

Smothered pork chops are the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, juicy pork chops enveloped in a rich, savory gravy. This Southern-inspired dish brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With a combination of pan-seared pork, caramelized onions, and a creamy, well-seasoned gravy, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Savory: The combination of seasonings, onions, and gravy creates deep, comforting flavors.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious.

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Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter

For the Gravy:

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Season both sides of the pork chops with this mixture. Lightly coat the chops with flour, shaking off any excess.

2. Sear the Pork Chops

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil or butter. Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.

3. Cook the Onions and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Make the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and let the gravy simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

5. Simmer the Pork Chops

Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F).

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the smothered pork chops with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Spoon extra gravy over the top for maximum flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the onions for an earthy twist.
• Spicy Version: Include a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for the heavy cream.

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Servings and Cooking Time

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze pork chops and gravy in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the gravy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep pork chops from drying out?

Cooking them at a lower temperature and simmering in gravy helps keep them tender and juicy.

Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, but they may cook faster, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.

What’s the best type of pork chop for this recipe?

Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the chops first, then cook everything in a slow cooker on low for 6 hours.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors develop even more overnight. Just reheat gently before serving.

What’s the best side dish for smothered pork chops?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered egg noodles complement the dish well.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the gravy may be slightly thinner. You can thicken it with an extra teaspoon of flour.

What can I do if my gravy is too thick?

Add a bit more broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency.

What if my gravy is too thin?

Let it simmer a bit longer, or mix a teaspoon of flour with water and stir it in.

Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, beef broth will give the gravy a richer, deeper flavor.

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Conclusion

Smothered pork chops are a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal. Whether served over mashed potatoes or with a side of rice, the flavorful gravy and tender pork make this recipe a family favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy the rich, home-cooked goodness!

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