These creamy mushroom pork chops are a real treat! Tender pork chops are cooked in a rich mushroom sauce that’s full of flavor. It’s like a hug on a plate!
Whenever I make this dish, the whole house smells amazing. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which means more time to enjoy it with my loved ones (and maybe a little less washing up!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add extra flavor, but boneless works too! If you’re watching your intake, lean cuts like tenderloin can be a healthier choice.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms give a rich flavor, but white button mushrooms are just fine. If you want a different taste, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the sauce luscious, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option. Just know the sauce may not be as thick.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely touch. If you don’t have it, dried thyme works well too, but you’ll need only half the amount.
Onion: Adding onion is optional, but I love its sweetness in the sauce. For a milder taste, shallots are a great substitute!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops to perfection can be tricky, but with a few tips, it’s easy! The key is to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dryness. Here’s how:
- Let the pork chops come to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use medium-high heat for searing. This will give you a nice golden crust.
- Check the internal temperature. They should reach 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender meat.
- After cooking, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps them juicy!
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of your pork chops with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the pan. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Then, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet where you cooked the pork, add the butter. Once melted, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to brown.
4. Add Garlic and Onion:
If you’re using onion, add it to the skillet along with the minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the onion is soft.
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. This adds great flavor to your sauce!
6. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and thyme. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken up a little.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the pork chops back to the skillet. Coat them in the creamy mushroom sauce and let them simmer together for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies!
Enjoy your delicious creamy mushroom pork chops!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you need them thawed quickly, seal them in a plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick with these alternatives, so you might need to simmer a bit longer to reach the desired consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pork chops ahead, then keep them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on low heat until warmed through. Freshen up the sauce with a little extra cream or broth, if needed.