These creamy garlic pork chops with tender potatoes make for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor. The rich sauce adds a delightful touch to juicy chops and soft spuds!
Whenever I make this dish, the aroma fills my kitchen, and I can’t help but get hungry! It’s the perfect dinner for a cozy night in. Who doesn’t love a one-pan meal that’s this easy?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe because they stay juicy during cooking. If you only have boneless, they’ll work too, just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that lovely flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals a clove, but fresh has a better taste!
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their creamy texture, but you could swap them for Yukon Gold or Red potatoes. Just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used instead, though the sauce won’t be as rich. Or, for dairy-free, try coconut cream or a non-dairy milk with a thickener.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but fresh thyme adds a brighter flavor. If you can get fresh thyme, I highly recommend it – the aroma is fantastic!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy pork chops comes down to a few key factors, starting with seasoning. Generously salt your chops before cooking; this helps retain moisture. Here’s how to cook them properly:
- Start with a hot skillet and preheat your olive oil to create a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each chop space to brown properly.
- Remove chops when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to keep them juicy; they’ll continue cooking off the heat.
- Let them rest for a few minutes before serving – this helps the juices redistribute.
These little tricks can elevate your pork chops from good to great!
Creamy Garlic Pork Chops and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Potatoes and Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total to make. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the ingredients, and another 20 minutes cooking them to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This step is key for flavor!
2. Brown the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and nearly cooked through. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the baby potatoes to the skillet and stir them well until they are coated with the garlic butter. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown them evenly.
5. Simmer with Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to mix everything together. Bring it to a simmer, then cover the skillet and allow the potatoes to cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender.
6. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Return the pork chops to the pan, nestling them among the potatoes in the sauce.
7. Finish Cooking:
Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, making sure to spoon the creamy sauce over the pork chops frequently to help them finish cooking through and to thicken the sauce nicely.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. You want that sauce to be just right!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your creamy garlic pork chops and potatoes with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, delicious dish!
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy your cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a little earlier to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Just note that the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well for a creamy texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork chops and sauce ahead of time! Just cook everything, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove before serving – it tastes just as delicious!
