If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug, you need to try this Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy Recipe. It’s the perfect dinner that brings juicy, golden-browned pork chops together with a rich, creamy gravy loaded with herbs and spices that dance on your taste buds. This dish wonderfully balances simplicity and deep flavor, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Plus, the gravy is so luscious you’ll find yourself wanting to savor every last drop!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it relies on simple, classic ingredients that each contribute their own magic—juicy pork chops for hearty flavor, spices that build depth, and a creamy gravy that pulls everything together. You likely have most of these staples on hand already, making this dish both quick and satisfying.
- 4 pork chops: Choose chops about 3/4 to 1 inch thick for the perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the pork.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve that gorgeously crispy sear on the chops.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create the luscious base of the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons flour: The key to thickening the gravy into a smooth, velvety finish.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture to the sauce.
- 1/3 cup heavy/whipping cream: Brings creaminess for a perfectly comforting gravy texture.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Adds aromatic, savory undertones without overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons onion powder: Enhances flavor complexity with subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides a hint of smoky warmth and lovely color.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces an umami kick that deepens the sauce’s flavor.
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a slight, gentle heat to balance the creaminess.
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional): A sprinkling of green freshness for garnish and a mild herbal note.
How to Make Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pork Chops
Start by taking the pork chops out of the fridge about 15 to 30 minutes before cooking so they can come to room temperature. This step helps them cook evenly and remain juicy. While they’re resting, gather and prep your other ingredients for a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Heat Your Skillet
Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Give the pan a few minutes to get really hot, especially if you’re using a cast iron skillet. A hot pan is crucial for that beautiful, golden-brown crust on your chops that seals in the juices and flavor.
Step 3: Season and Sear the Pork Chops
Pat each pork chop dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture—this helps with browning. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Then, carefully add the chops to the hot pan and cook them for 3 to 5 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. You want a nice golden crust and an internal temperature of about 145°F for perfect doneness. If your chops are thick, cook them a little longer or in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
Step 4: Make the Gravy Base
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once it’s melted, stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for about a minute. This creates a roux, which is the thickening agent that gives your gravy its silky texture. Don’t rush this step because you want the flour to cook through and develop a richer flavor.
Step 5: Whisk in Broth and Cream
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until the flour dissolves completely. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. The gravy will start to thicken within a few minutes. If it becomes too thick, simply add a little more broth or cream to achieve the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Combine and Finish the Dish
Pour any pork juices that have collected on the plate back into the skillet, stirring them into the gravy for extra flavor. Then, either nestle the pork chops back into the gravy to heat through briefly or plate each chop and spoon the sauce generously over the top. A little fresh parsley sprinkled over the finished dish adds a bright, fresh touch if you have it on hand.
How to Serve Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the classic choice, bringing a pop of green and a subtle herbal flavor that complements the rich gravy beautifully. You can also add a few thin lemon slices on the side if you want a hint of brightness to cut through the creaminess.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy, creamy rice, or buttery noodles. For a lighter contrast, steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad help balance the hearty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chops on a bed of buttery grits or creamy polenta for a Southern-inspired twist. You can also shave some sharp cheddar over the top just before serving for a cheesy delight. For an elegant touch, serve in shallow bowls with extra gravy ladled around for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or a second-night dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze the pork chops and gravy for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the gravy from separating. If needed, add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the luscious consistency. Microwave works too, but be careful to heat in short bursts and stir well.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy Recipe?
Yes! Bone-in pork chops work beautifully and bring extra flavor to the gravy. Just remember they may take a little longer to cook through compared to boneless chops.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the gravy?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative, but the gravy will be less rich and creamy. To maintain thickness, you might need a little extra flour or cornstarch.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
No worries! You can substitute with soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar to add some umami depth, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
How do I know when the pork chops are cooked perfectly?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; 145°F is the safe temperature with a nice, juicy finish. The pork should be slightly pink inside but not raw or dry.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy, and double-check that your broth and spices don’t contain gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy Recipe is such a wonderful go-to meal that combines simplicity, comfort, and endless flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, it promises to warm hearts and fill plates with satisfaction. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to keep handy forever!
Print
Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy recipe features tender pork chops seared to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy garlic and onion spiced gravy. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Pork Chops & Seasoning
- 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Cooking & Gravy Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/3 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Remove the pork chops from the refrigerator at least 15-30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Gather and measure all other ingredients.
- Heat the Skillet: Add olive oil to a skillet over medium-high heat, and heat the pan for about 5 minutes until it’s hot enough for searing.
- Season Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Place pork chops in the hot skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side depending on thickness (3 minutes for thinner chops, 5 minutes for 1″ thick). Pork should be golden brown and cooked to 145°F internal temperature. If needed, cook slightly longer. Transfer chops to a plate and set aside. Sear in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Make the Roux: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Prepare the Gravy: Whisk in chicken broth until the roux is smooth and dissolved. Add heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. Stir and cook for a few minutes until gravy thickens.
- Add Pork Juices: Pour any juices collected on the resting plate back into the skillet. Stir them into the gravy. Remove skillet from heat. If gravy is too thick, thin it with a splash more broth or cream.
- Serve: Return pork chops to the skillet to coat with the gravy, or plate the chops and spoon gravy over each. Season with extra salt and pepper if desired, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Bringing pork chops to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking and better searing.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan for best searing results.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook pork chops in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer for safety and perfect texture—145°F is the recommended internal temperature.
- Adjust gravy thickness with additional broth or cream as preferred.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright herbaceous note, but is optional.
