These juicy skillet pork chops are a real treat! Cooked right in the pan, they are paired with a tasty gravy made from the drippings—talk about flavor!
Let’s be real, who can resist a good gravy? I like to serve these with mashed potatoes, so I can soak up every delicious drop. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you only have boneless chops, they’ll work too! Just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor, but white button mushrooms are equally good. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can skip them or substitute with spinach or kale for a different texture.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. If you’re looking for a dairy-free choice, coconut cream can provide a similar richness.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth adds depth, but store-bought works well too. You could also use vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops to perfection can be tricky, but here’s how you can do it:
- Start by bringing the pork chops to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat them dry well! This ensures a good sear. Season with salt and pepper just before cooking.
- Use a really hot skillet for searing. This creates a nice crust to lock in juices.
- Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (145°F/63°C) and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving for juiciness.
Following these tips will give you delicious, tender pork chops every time!
Skillet Pork Chops with Pan Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or white button)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried thyme)
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll have delicious, hearty pork chops ready to serve in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps get a nice crust when searing them. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them until they turn golden brown on both sides, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Once they are done, remove the chops and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. When it has melted, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them until they become soft and golden brown, which will take about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring often until the onions become translucent, around 3 minutes.
4. Create the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to combine. Cook this for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. It will help thicken the gravy!
5. Whisk in Broth and Cream:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to combine and capture any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Now, stir in the heavy cream and thyme, letting the sauce simmer and thicken slightly for about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some of that tasty gravy over them. Cover the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your succulent pork chops topped with the delicious mushroom pan gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that boneless pork chops will likely cook faster, so monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking them.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream is a great choice that still provides richness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm up the pork chops and gravy on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain their texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and gravy a few hours ahead, then keep them covered in the fridge. Just reheat them on the stove before serving, adding a splash of broth or cream to freshen up the gravy.