This Pork Chop Gravy is a warm and cozy dish, perfect for a hearty meal. Juicy pork chops are cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy gravy that makes every bite a delight.
Honestly, I can’t resist pairing this dish with mashed potatoes. It’s like a hug on a plate! 🤗 Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, boneless loin chops work well too. Just reduce the cooking time a bit to avoid drying them out.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness to the dish. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or green onions could be good alternatives. A sprinkle of onion powder can also do the trick.
Chicken Broth: This is key for making the gravy flavorful. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth. For a vegetarian twist, vegetable broth works just as well.
Heavy Cream: This makes the gravy nice and creamy. You can substitute it with half-and-half for fewer calories or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Dijon Mustard: It adds a lovely tang to the gravy. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard or even a bit of Worcestershire sauce can be good substitutes.
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
Getting juicy pork chops requires some attention! The key steps include patting them dry and seasoning them well. Here’s how:
- Start by drying the pork chops completely with paper towels. This helps them sear better.
- Generously season with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances flavor and helps create a nice crust.
- When searing, don’t rush it! Give each side about 4-5 minutes to form that golden brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
By following these steps, your pork chops will be flavorful and juicy, making this dish a true winner! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Pork Chop Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 1 small onion, finely sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and then about 15-20 minutes cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry using paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper, making sure to cover them well to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned pork chops to the pan and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they form a beautiful golden crust. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions:
Lower the heat to medium and add the sliced onion to the same skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This adds wonderful flavor to your gravy!
4. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring until it’s fragrant. This is where your kitchen starts to smell amazing!
5. Make the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring well to coat everything. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
6. Create the Gravy:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (that’s where all the flavor is!). Bring this mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until it starts thickening up nicely.
7. Add Cream and Chops:
If you’re using it, stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard for extra richness. Then, return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning some gravy over them. It’s all about soaking up that deliciousness!
8. Final Cooking:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for another 5-8 minutes. This will cook the pork chops through—check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the gravy and add more salt and pepper if needed. You want it just right!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pork chops, smothering them in that savory gravy, and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. This dish is perfect paired with mashed potatoes and green beans for a fantastic comfort meal!
Enjoy the heartiness and flavors of your homemade Pork Chop Gravy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used if you prefer them. Just keep in mind that they cook faster, so be sure to check their internal temperature early to prevent them from drying out.
How Can I Thicken the Gravy More?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can whisk together an additional tablespoon of flour with a bit of cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the simmering gravy. Let it cook for another couple of minutes until it thickens to your liking.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can use beef broth or even vegetable broth if you want a lighter flavor. The gravy will still be delicious and rich, just with a slightly different taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the pork chops.