Southern Smothered Pork Chops with Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Smothered Pork Chops

Y’all, if you’re looking for a dish that’s as easy as pie and hits the spot on a busy night, this smothered pork chops recipe is just the ticket for you and your peeps. It’s designed for quick cooking without skimping on that rich flavor that makes your taste buds dance. Whether you’re a home cook hustling through dinner or a busy parent, this meal comes together in no time flat, using straightforward ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

Plus, it’s packed with health benefits that keep things balanced and nutritious. These smothered pork chops serve up a good dose of protein to keep you going, all while using fresh, wholesome picks that help with your wellness goals. It’s a smart choice for diet-conscious folks, offering lean cuts that don’t overload on calories but still feel extra extra cozy and comforting.

What makes this recipe a winner is its versatility, letting you tweak it to fit whatever your family’s needs are. You can swap in gluten SPI-free options or keep it low-calorie, and it adapts like a champ to different tastes. That distinctive flavor from the savory gravy and tender pork will win over traditional folks and modern eaters alike, making it a go-to dish for all kinds of gatherings.

Essential Ingredients for Smothered Pork Chops

Honey, let me tell you, the heart of any great smothered pork chops lies in the ingredients, and we’ve got a list that’s straight from the soul of Southern cooking. To whip up this finger lickin’ good dish, gather these essentials that bring out that creamy, comforting gravy everyone raves about. I’ll break it down nice and clear so you can shop easy and cook with confidence.

• 4 bone-in ribeye pork chops (about 2.5 lbs / 1.13 kg)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (approx. 60g/65ml)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (approx 57g / 60ml)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (approx 30ml)
• 1 medium-sized white onion, sliced into half moons
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, de-stemmed
• 2 cups chicken stock or broth (approx 480ml)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (approx 120ml)

This list covers everything you need for a batch that feeds the family just right. For those wanting to mix things up, we’ve got special dietary swaps to keep it fun and inclusive.

Special Dietary Options

• For a vegan take, swap the pork chops with thick-cut seitan or portobello mushrooms.
• Go gluten-free by using rice or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Keep it low-calorie with unsweetened almond milk in place of heavy cream.

How to Prepare the Perfect Smothered Pork Chops: Step-by-Step Guide

Y’all, getting these smothered pork chops just right is simpler than you think, and I’m here to walk you through it step by step so you’re set for success. For more tips on juicy pork recipes, check out this helpful guide from experts in the kitchen. Start by prepping your ingredients to make the process smooth as silk.

1. First, pat the pork chops dry and season them all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Coat them evenly in flour, shaking off any excess, and set aside the leftover flour for later.
2. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the pork chops without crowding them. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re nicely browned, then remove and cover with foil to keep warm.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions until they’re caramelized, about 8-10 minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of the reserved flour and stir it well until it’s absorbed, then mix in the fresh thyme leaves.
5. Pour in the chicken stock while stirring to scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan, and cook until the gravy starts to thicken, around 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and let it simmer while you adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon the gravy over them, and simmer on medium-low for 10-15 minutes until everything melds together beautifully.
7. Finally, take it off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving it up hot. This whole process, from prep to plate, takes about 40 minutes total, with 10 minutes prep and 30 minutes cooking.

For those adapting for dietary needs, swap in your favorites like we covered earlier to make it your own.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Smothered Pork Chops

If you’re like me, tailoring recipes to fit your crowd is half the fun, and this smothered pork chops dish is super flexible. Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or watching your calories, there are easy swaps that keep the flavor finger lickin’ good. Let’s dive into some simple changes that make this recipe work for everyone at your table.

• For protein swaps, try thick portobello mushrooms or seitan steaks if you’re going veggie, or use firm white fish fillets for a pescatarian vibe.
• Switch things up in the veggies and seasonings by using shallots instead of onions or adding herbs like rosemary for a fresh twist.
• Keep it dairy-free with coconut milk in the sauce, and go gluten-free by opting for cornstarch as your thickener.

These tweaks ensure your meal stays hearty and delicious no matter the dietary needs.

Mastering Smothered Pork Chops: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve nailed the basics, y’all can level up your smothered pork chops with some pro moves that take this dish from good to amazing. Sear those chops over high heat first to get that perfect crust, then let them simmer low and slow for tender results. Try adding mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix for extra depth that makes your peeps come back for seconds.

If you’re planning ahead, make the sauce early and reheat it when you’re ready. For more on Southern cooking, check out our Southern baking guide for inspired ideas. It’s all about making meals that bring smiles and comfort.

How to Store Smothered Pork Chops: Best Practices

Keeping your smothered pork chops fresh is key to enjoying leftovers without any fuss, and it’s easier than you think. Pop them in an airtight container and chill in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to lock in that homey flavor. For longer storage, freeze portions in bags labeled with the date, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months.

• Thaw frozen chops overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
• Prep big batches for meal planning to save time on busy weeknights.

This way, you can have a quick, tasty meal anytime without losing that fresh-from-the-skillet taste.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Smothered Pork Chops

Smothered Pork Chops

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🍖 Delight in tender Southern smothered pork chops bathed in a rich, creamy onion gravy.
🥘 This hearty dish offers comforting flavors perfect for a satisfying main course any night of the week.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

– 4 bone-in ribeye pork chops (about 2.5 lbs / 1.13 kg)

– Kosher salt and freshly ground black black pepper, to taste

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (approx. 60g/65ml)

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (approx 57g / 60ml)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil (approx 30ml)

– 1 medium-sized white onion, sliced into half moons

– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, de-stemmed

– 2 cups chicken stock or broth (approx 480ml)

– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (approx 120ml)

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Instructions

1-First, pat the pork chops dry and season them all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Coat them evenly in flour, shaking off any excess, and set aside the leftover flour for later.

2-Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the pork chops without crowding them. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re nicely browned, then remove and cover with foil to keep warm.

3-In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions until they’re caramelized, about 8-10 minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4-Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of the reserved flour and stir it well until it’s absorbed, then mix in the fresh thyme leaves.

5-Pour in the chicken stock while stirring to scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan, and cook until the gravy starts to thicken, around 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy whipping cream and let it simmer while you adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

6-Return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon the gravy over them, and simmer on medium-low for 10-15 minutes until everything melds together beautifully.

7-Finally, take it off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving it up hot. This whole process, from prep to plate, takes about 40 minutes total, with 10 minutes prep and 30 minutes cooking.

Last Step:

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Notes

🍴 Bone-in ribeye chops deliver the best flavor and juiciness.
🌾 Season well and evenly coat with flour for a crispy crust.
🧅 Fully caramelize onions (8-10 minutes) to deepen gravy flavor.

• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing and Simmering
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 pork chop with gravy