Juicy pork chops smothered in rich, flavorful pan gravy make for a hearty dish. There’s nothing like the smell of them cooking in the kitchen!
When I’m hungry, this meal always hits the spot. Pair it with mashed potatoes, and you’ll have a comforting classic that feels like a warm hug. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops bring more flavor and juiciness. If you’re in a pinch, boneless chops work too but may cook faster, so watch the time!
Mushrooms: I love using cremini for their depth of flavor, but if they’re not available, white button mushrooms are a great substitute. You can even try using dried mushrooms; just rehydrate them in warm water first!
Chicken Broth: If you’re looking for a lighter dish, use vegetable broth instead. For a richer flavor, homemade chicken stock is fantastic if you have it on hand!
Thyme: Fresh thyme is wonderful, but you can use 1/3 of dried thyme if that’s what you have. Toss it in the gravy a bit earlier so it can better infuse its flavor.
Butter: While unsalted butter is perfect, you can swap it with olive oil if you’re keeping it dairy-free. Just keep in mind that the gravy flavor may vary a bit!
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but here are key tips for success:
- Bring the chops to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! If you have more chops than fit comfortably, cook them in batches for the best sear.
- Use a meat thermometer! Pork should reach an internal temp of 145°F (63°C). Letting it rest for a few minutes afterward keeps the juices inside.
- Don’t forget to cover the skillet while simmering the chops in gravy. This helps cook them fully while keeping them moist.
With these tips, your pork chops will turn out juicy and tender every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Pork Chops with Pan Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or white button)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (or stock)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Pork Chops:
Begin by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and black pepper. This will enhance their flavor as they cook!
2. Sear Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes each. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and place them on a plate to rest.
3. Cook Mushrooms and Aromatics:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once it melts, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Stir occasionally and cook until they are browned and have released their moisture, which takes about 5 minutes.
4. Add Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion to the mushrooms and cook until the onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Make the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture and stir to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
6. Add Broth and Simmer:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the gravy mixture to a gentle simmer; it will start to thicken as it cooks.
7. Finish Cooking Pork Chops in Gravy:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, placing them in the gravy mixture. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer together for 5-7 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Serve:
Carefully remove the pork chops from the skillet. Give the gravy a final stir, taste it, and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Spoon the mushroom gravy generously over the pork chops. Garnish with chopped parsley and fresh thyme for a beautiful finish.
9. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious pork chops hot with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or any side dish you love. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the happy faces around your table!
This recipe not only creates tender and flavorful pork chops but also fills your home with a mouthwatering aroma. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used if you prefer, but keep an eye on the cooking time. They will cook faster than bone-in chops, so check for doneness around the 4-minute mark on each side.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth is a great alternative. You can also use water, but the gravy won’t have as rich a flavor. To enhance it, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a boil some veggies in the water beforehand.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pork chops and gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to the gravy to prevent it from thickening too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Mushrooms?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can skip them or replace them with other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Just add them in the same stage as you would the mushrooms, adjusting the cooking time as needed.