Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops is a cozy dish that warms the heart. Tender pork chops are smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce that’s just heavenly!
Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both filling and easy to make? I enjoy serving this with fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up all that tasty sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are perfect since they cook quickly and stay moist. If you have bone-in chops, just adjust the cooking time a bit. You can also use chicken breasts or thighs as a substitute if you prefer.
Mushrooms: Button and cremini mushrooms are my go-to for their texture and flavor. If you want something different, shiitake or portobello mushrooms can bring a deeper taste. Don’t worry if you can’t find fresh—canned mushrooms work too!
Soup: The cream of mushroom soup is the heart of the sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own from scratch with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, cream, and broth. For a cleaner option, try a cream of celery soup instead.
Sour Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute, or if you need it dairy-free, try coconut cream for a hint of sweetness.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but fresh thyme brings vibrant flavor. If you’re out of thyme, oregano or rosemary can work as substitutes—just use a little less since they’re stronger.
How Do You Ensure Pork Chops Are Juicy and Tender?
The key to juicy pork chops is not to overcook them. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by seasoning the pork chops well. This not only adds flavor but helps to seal in the moisture while they cook.
- Sear them in a hot skillet to develop a nice golden crust. This locks in flavor and moisture.
- After browning, be gentle with heat. Lower heat and cover to allow the chops to cook through without drying out. A meat thermometer can help you keep track; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute!
Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini mushrooms work well)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (canned or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time, you’ll be ready to enjoy a hearty meal that’s perfect for a family dinner!
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 both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to give them a good flavor.
2. Brown the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned pork chops. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they’re nicely browned but not fully cooked. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside for now.
3. Cook Mushrooms and Onions:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and chopped onions (if you’re using them). Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and the onions become soft. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it smells wonderful.
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce (if you’re adding it), and thyme. Mix everything until it’s well blended and heated through.
5. Simmer the Pork Chops in the Sauce:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and let them cook for another 10-15 minutes. You want to make sure the pork chops are cooked through and tender. Give the sauce a stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious dish with fresh parsley and extra thyme sprigs. Serve it hot, ideally with some fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles so you can enjoy all that tasty creamy mushroom sauce.
Enjoy your comforting, creamy, and flavorful pork chop dinner!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in chops may take a bit longer to cook. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you prefer, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Coconut cream can work as a non-dairy alternative, giving a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and the mushroom sauce in advance, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet until warmed through and the pork chops are heated back to a safe temperature.