These pork chops are juicy and flavorful, topped with a creamy garlic sauce that makes every bite special. The sauce is rich and delicious, perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how simple it is to whip up the sauce while the pork cooks. It’s a great way to impress guests or just treat yourself to something yummy after a long day! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops offer great flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find bone-in or prefer boneless, that works too! Just remember, bone-in usually adds more flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really enhances the sauce, but you can use minced garlic in a jar if that’s all you have. For a mild taste, roasted garlic is a delicious alternative.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add a nice texture, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to skip them or use more garlic! They’ll still be tasty!
Wine/Broth: Dry white wine brings acidity, but if you prefer not to use it, chicken broth works well too. Just add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is key for a rich sauce. If you’re looking for lighter options, half-and-half or coconut cream can be used, though the flavor will change slightly.
How Do You Get Juicy Pork Chops?
Getting perfectly cooked pork chops that are juicy can be a challenge! Always start by seasoning your chops well and allow them to come to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet until the oil is shimmering but not smoking. This ensures a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear them in batches if needed, so they brown beautifully.
- Use a meat thermometer! The ideal temperature is 145°F (63°C). Letting them rest for a few minutes allows juices to redistribute.
Pork Chops with Creamy Garlic Sauce
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
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 6-8 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional, can replace with extra garlic)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: 4-5 asparagus spears or other green vegetable for cooking alongside
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes to cook, totaling about 35-40 minutes. It’s an easy way to impress for dinner without spending the whole evening in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps get a nice sear. Generously season both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After cooking, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the sliced garlic and mushrooms (if using). Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the mushrooms are slightly tender.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Make sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for approximately 3 minutes until it reduces by half.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, allowing it to simmer gently for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit. Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Combine and Cook:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over them. If you’re adding asparagus, place them in the sauce around the pork chops and cook for a few minutes until tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the top with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the pork chops hot, ensuring each plate gets plenty of the creamy garlic sauce.
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that rich garlic cream sauce. Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, though they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they don’t dry out.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce Further?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) during the simmering process or simmer the sauce longer to reduce it further.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Wine?
Yes, you can substitute the wine with additional chicken broth or vegetable broth. A splash of lemon juice can add a touch of acidity that wine would provide!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce if it thickens too much while sitting.