Smothered Baked Pork Chops

Smothered Baked Pork Chops: A Comforting and Flavorful Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed meal, Smothered Baked Pork Chops are the perfect choice! This dish brings together tender, juicy pork chops with a rich and savory gravy that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. The combination of well-seasoned pork, sautéed onions, and a creamy gravy creates a satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking to treat yourself to a delicious dinner, Smothered Baked Pork Chops are an ideal recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Smothered Baked Pork Chops

There are many reasons why Smothered Baked Pork Chops stand out as a comfort food classic:

Tender and Juicy Pork: Baking the pork chops allows them to cook slowly, keeping them juicy while developing flavor.
Savory Gravy: The rich gravy, made with onions, garlic, and seasonings, perfectly complements the pork, creating a flavorful and comforting sauce to pour over the chops.
One-Pan Meal: This recipe is simple to prepare and requires minimal clean-up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a stress-free dinner.
Customizable: You can adjust the flavor of the gravy with your favorite herbs and spices, tailoring the recipe to your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pork Chops:

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

For the Gravy:

1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (for a rich and creamy gravy)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken the gravy)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Smothered Baked Pork Chops

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pork Chops

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Next, season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper to taste. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the pork while the gravy adds even more depth later on.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. This step is essential for locking in the juices and flavor before baking.