These creamy garlic pork chops are a real treat! Juicy pork, smothered in a rich and tasty garlic sauce, makes for a meal that’s super satisfying and easy to cook.
Trust me, everyone will want seconds! I love serving these chops with some rice or veggies. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for busy weeknights. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for flavor and moisture. If you’re short on time, boneless chops work fine too. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key for that rich flavor. If you only have garlic powder, use 1 teaspoon; just add it when you add the cream so the flavor blooms. But you won’t get the same depth!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creaminess. For a lighter option, you might use half-and-half or Greek yogurt, but it won’t be as rich. If using yogurt, add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. If you’re out, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a hint of tang. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, or you could skip it for a more straightforward flavor.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops gives them a beautiful golden color and locks in juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chops. This gets that nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chops space to cook evenly.
- Avoid flipping them too often. Let them cook uninterrupted for 4-5 minutes on each side to develop flavor.
Rest the chops for a few minutes after cooking; this helps redistributes the juices so they stay moist!
Using these tips will help you create a delicious, creamy garlic pork chop dish that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Pork Chops
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
- 6–8 whole garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but delicious enough to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Next, season the chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, toss in your peeled garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant but watch they don’t turn brown. This will give your sauce an amazing garlic flavor!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour the chicken broth into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty brown bits from the pan. This adds flavor to your sauce. Now, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Cook the Pork Chops in the Sauce:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Final Touches:
Give the sauce a taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Once done, garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy garlic pork chops right away, spooning the delicious sauce over each chop. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad! Enjoy your meal!
These creamy garlic pork chops are sure to be a family favorite!
FAQ About Creamy Garlic Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops work great! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the garlic cream sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently on the stove before adding the seared pork chops and simmering them together.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
