When it comes to soul-warming, comforting dinners, nothing beats Smothered Pork Chops. This Southern staple features thick-cut bone-in chops seared to golden perfection, then gently braised in a luscious, homemade onion gravy made from flour, garlic, and heavy cream. It’s the kind of meal that turns a simple dinner into something memorable.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or planning a cozy Sunday meal, this dish delivers all the savory satisfaction you crave. The creamy onion gravy soaks into the chops and seeps into every bite, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Serve these smothered pork chops over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even rice, and you’ve got a full meal that’s as hearty as it is irresistible. With one bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has stood the test of time in Southern kitchens.
Ingredients:
4 bone-in pork loin chops (1″ inch thick)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 yellow onion , sliced
2 cloves garlic , minced
2 sprigs fresh thyme
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1 ) 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 until browned, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
2 ) Remove the pork from the pan and add in the butter and onions, cooking well until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3 ) 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 and whisk well.
4 ) Add the pork back into the pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the pork chops are tender and cooked through and the sauce has thickened and reduced by half.
Nutrition Facts:
Yield: 4 servings, Amount per serving: 357 calories, Calories: 357g, Carbohydrates: 7g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 36g, Saturated Fat: 25g, Cholesterol: 70mg, Sodium: 1124mg, Potassium: 156mg, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 785g, Vitamin C: 10.7g, Calcium: 39g, Iron: 0.5g
Pro Tips for Perfect Smothered Pork Chops:
Use bone-in chops – They retain moisture better and bring more flavor to the dish.
Sear until golden brown – A good sear adds flavor to both the meat and the gravy.
Slice onions thinly – This ensures they caramelize evenly and dissolve into the gravy.
Deglaze with broth – Scrape the fond (brown bits) from the pan — it’s flavor gold!
Simmer low and slow – Let the chops cook gently in the gravy for extra tenderness.
Use heavy cream – It gives a rich, velvety finish that balances the savory elements.
Rest before serving – Let the chops sit for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
Double the gravy – You’ll want extra for mashed potatoes or sopping with bread.
FAQs:
What cut of pork is best for smothered pork chops?
Thick, bone-in pork loin chops are ideal. They’re juicy, cook evenly, and add flavor to the gravy.
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but they cook faster and can dry out. Keep an eye on your simmer time to avoid overcooking.
What do I serve with smothered pork chops?
Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even roasted veggies pair perfectly with the creamy onion gravy.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) if needed, or let it simmer longer to reduce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I substitute the cream?
For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, but the gravy will be less rich.