Smothered pork chops, a classic Southern comfort dish, features tender, juicy pork chops braised in a rich, savory gravy. It's a hearty meal that promises to satisfy your palate and leave you feeling full and content.
Most ingredients for this recipe, like pork chops, onions, and garlic, are commonly found in any kitchen. However, you might need to pick up a few specific items. Thyme sprigs, often used in cooking for their aromatic, earthy flavor, can be found in the fresh herb section of your supermarket. Heavy cream, which adds a creamy, rich element to the sauce, is typically located in the dairy aisle.
Ingredients for Your Smothered Pork Chops
Pork loin chops: The main ingredient, known for its tender and lean meat.
Kosher salt: This coarse salt enhances the flavor of the pork.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dish.
Vegetable oil: Used for searing the pork chops.
Yellow onion: Gives a sweet and tangy flavor to the sauce.
Garlic cloves: Provides a strong, pungent flavor to complement the pork.
Thyme sprigs: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor to the dish.
Butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
Flour: Used as a thickening agent for the sauce.
Chicken broth: Provides a base for the sauce.
Heavy cream: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
One reader, Hamil Layton says:
This smothered pork chops recipe is a game-changer! The pork chops were incredibly tender and the sauce was rich and flavorful. The combination of caramelized onions and thyme created a mouthwatering aroma. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty and comforting meal.
Techniques Required for Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
How to sear the pork chops: Sear the seasoned pork chops in a cast iron skillet on medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they are browned. This will help to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust on the pork chops.
How to caramelize the onions: Cook the onions in butter over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and develop a sweet, rich flavor. This slow cooking process allows the natural sugars in the onions to caramelize, adding depth to the dish.
How to make the roux: After adding the garlic and thyme, sprinkle in the flour and stir until it is fully absorbed. This will create a thickening agent for the sauce and add a nutty flavor to the dish.
How to simmer the pork chops: After adding the pork back into the pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. This gentle cooking method will ensure the pork chops become tender and absorb the flavors of the sauce while allowing the sauce to thicken and reduce by half.
How To Make Smothered Pork Chops
Impress your family with this recipe. Pork chops are cooked until tender and braised in a cream-based sauce with onion, garlic, butter, and thyme.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4pork loin chops,bone-in, 1-inch thick
- 1tspkosher salt
- ½tspblack pepper,coarse ground
- 4tbspvegetable oil
- 1yellow onion,sliced
- 2garlic cloves,minced
- 2thyme sprigs,fresh
- 4tbspbutter
- 2tsbpflour
- 2cupschicken broth
- ½cupheavy cream
Instructions
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Season the pork with the salt and pepper and add the vegetable oil to a cast iron skillet on medium high heat, searing on both sides for 4 to 5 minutes each side, until browned.
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Remove the pork from the pan and add in the butter and onions, cooking well for about 15 to 20 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
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Add in the garlic and thyme, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add in the flour and stir until it is fully absorbed before adding in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Whisk well.
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Add the pork back into the pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the pork chops are tender and cooked through and the sauce has thickened and reduced by half.
Nutrition
- Calories: 631.07kcal
- Fat: 52.79g
- Saturated Fat: 20.58g
- Trans Fat: 0.57g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 23.52g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.09g
- Carbohydrates: 11.36g
- Fiber: 0.94g
- Sugar: 4.08g
- Protein: 27.72g
- Cholesterol: 148.60mg
- Sodium: 715.08mg
- Calcium: 65.73mg
- Potassium: 637.12mg
- Iron: 1.61mg
- Vitamin A: 226.61µg
- Vitamin C: 6.30mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
When searing your pork chops, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the meat. This will help to create a beautiful, flavorful crust on the outside of the chops. To test the heat, you can add a drop of water to the pan - if it sizzles and evaporates quickly, the pan is ready. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan as this can cause the chops to steam rather than sear, affecting the texture and flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Smothered Pork Chops
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare whatever you can in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.
Efficient organization: Arrange your workspace efficiently, placing frequently used ingredients and tools within easy reach to avoid unnecessary movement.
Substitute Ingredients For Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
pork loin chops - Substitute with bone-in pork chops: Bone-in pork chops can be used as a substitute for pork loin chops. They have a similar texture and flavor and will work well in this recipe.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt. It provides a similar level of salinity and can be used in the same quantity as kosher salt in the recipe.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper. It has a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as black pepper in the recipe.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil. It has a neutral flavor and can be used for sautéing the pork chops.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onion can be used as a substitute for yellow onion. It provides a similar flavor and can be used in the same quantity as yellow onion in the recipe.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves. Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.
thyme sprigs - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can be used as a substitute for thyme. It provides a similar earthy flavor and aroma and can be used in the same quantity as thyme in the recipe.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for butter. It has a rich, nutty flavor and can be used for sautéing and adding flavor to the dish.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a substitute for flour to thicken the sauce. Use half the amount of cornstarch as the amount of flour called for in the recipe.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth. It provides a similar savory flavor and can be used in the same quantity as chicken broth in the recipe.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a substitute for heavy cream. It adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish and can be used in the same quantity as heavy cream in the recipe.
Presenting Your Smothered Pork Chops
- Elevate the pork chops: Place the smothered pork chops on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, using a ring mold for a neat presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and thyme over the pork chops for a pop of color and added aroma.
- Drizzle with reduction: Drizzle a balsamic glaze in an artistic pattern around the plate for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables: Serve alongside roasted brussels sprouts and carrots for a balanced and colorful plate.
- Use a fine dining plate: Choose a classic white, wide-rimmed plate to showcase the smothered pork chops and the rich sauce beautifully.
Essential Tools for Making Smothered Pork Chops
- Cast iron skillet: A heavy-duty pan that provides even heat distribution and is perfect for searing and browning meats.
- Whisk: Used for mixing and incorporating ingredients together, especially when making sauces and gravies.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping and handling the pork chops while searing and cooking.
- Knife: Used for slicing and chopping the onions, garlic, and thyme.
- Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring the salt, pepper, and flour.
- Measuring cup: Used to measure the chicken broth and heavy cream.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and scraping the bottom of the skillet while cooking the onions and making the sauce.
Storing and Freezing Smothered Pork Chops
Allow the pork chops to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent any excess moisture from forming and keep the pork chops fresh.
Store the cooled pork chops in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to place them in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back of the bottom shelf.
If you want to freeze the smothered pork chops, place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label the container or package with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen pork chops can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the pork chops overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat the smothered pork chops, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating.
How To Reheat Leftover Smothered Pork Chops
To reheat leftover smothered pork chops, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pork chops in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the pork chops and prevents them from drying out.
Another option is to reheat the smothered pork chops on the stovetop. Place the pork chops and any remaining sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet and let the pork chops simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the smothered pork chops in the microwave. Place the pork chops on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the pork chops, as this can cause them to become tough and rubbery.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the smothered pork chops under the broiler. Preheat your broiler to high and place the pork chops on a baking sheet. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is crispy and the pork chops are heated through. Keep a close eye on the pork chops to prevent them from burning.
If you have leftover sauce, you can reheat it separately in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the sauce is heated through, then pour it over the reheated pork chops. This helps to keep the sauce from becoming too thick or clumpy during the reheating process.
Interesting Fact About Smothered Pork Chops
The smothered pork chops recipe is a classic Southern dish that is often served with mashed potatoes or rice. It is a comfort food favorite and is known for its rich and creamy gravy. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.
Is Making Smothered Pork Chops at Home Cost-Effective?
This smothered pork chops recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as pork loin chops, onions, and garlic, are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of simple pantry staples like flour and chicken broth also adds to the cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Are Smothered Pork Chops Healthy or Unhealthy?
This smothered pork chops recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The use of vegetable oil for searing the pork chops adds unnecessary saturated fats.
- The generous amount of butter used in the sauce contributes to the dish's high calorie and saturated fat content.
- Heavy cream, although lending a luxurious texture to the sauce, further increases the calorie and fat content of the dish.
- The recipe lacks any significant source of vegetables or fiber, which are essential for a balanced meal.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on flavor, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the vegetable oil with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil, which are rich in monounsaturated fats.
- Reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce or substitute it with a lighter alternative like Greek yogurt or low-fat milk to maintain the creamy texture while cutting down on saturated fats.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients.
- Serve the pork chops with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables and a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice to create a more balanced and nutritious meal.
- Experiment with using herbs and spices to add flavor instead of relying solely on salt and fat. Rosemary, sage, and smoked paprika could work well with pork chops.
Editor's Opinion on This Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
The smothered pork chops recipe is a classic comfort dish that delivers rich, savory flavors. The method of searing the pork chops creates a beautiful caramelization, while the slow-cooked onions and garlic infuse the dish with depth. The addition of thyme adds a lovely earthy note, and the creamy sauce brings everything together. However, to elevate this dish, consider incorporating a touch of Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar to balance the richness and add a subtle tang. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Why trust this Smothered Pork Chops Recipe:
This smothered pork chops recipe is a classic comfort food dish that will surely satisfy your cravings. The pork loin chops are seared to perfection, locking in their natural juices and flavors. The caramelized onions and fragrant garlic add depth to the dish, while the thyme infuses a delightful aroma. The rich and creamy sauce, made with butter, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream, beautifully complements the tender pork chops. Trust in the simplicity and heartiness of this recipe to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
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