Smothered Baked Pork Chops

Once seared, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté them over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. The caramelized onions will add sweetness to the gravy.

Add the garlic and sauté for another 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. This will help thicken the gravy as it cooks. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flour to absorb the flavors.

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream for a smooth, rich texture and a touch of indulgence. Stir in the thyme, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, just until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Smother the Pork Chops and Bake

Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, placing them in the gravy and making sure they’re covered by the sauce. If necessary, spoon some of the gravy over the pork chops to ensure they’re fully smothered.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the meat is tender. If you prefer your pork chops slightly more well-done, you can cook them a bit longer, but be careful not to overcook them to maintain their juiciness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pork chops are cooked through, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve the pork chops with a generous helping of the savory onion and cream gravy.

Serving Suggestions

Smothered Baked Pork Chops are delicious on their own, but they pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some tasty options to round out your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy gravy is perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, creating a comforting, all-in-one meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans are great vegetable side dishes to complement the richness of the pork chops.
• Rice: A simple side of rice, whether white, brown, or wild, can soak up all the delicious gravy.
• Cornbread: Soft, fluffy cornbread makes a great side to mop up any leftover gravy.

Tips for Perfect Smothered Baked Pork Chops

• Use Bone-In Pork Chops: While boneless pork chops are fine, bone-in chops tend to retain more flavor and juiciness during cooking.
• Sear Well for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! It helps develop a rich crust on the pork chops, adding to the overall flavor of the dish.
• Adjust the Gravy: If you like a thicker gravy, simply let it simmer a little longer. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more chicken broth or cream.
• Herb Variations: While thyme is a classic herb in this recipe, feel free to experiment with rosemary or sage for a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

Smothered Baked Pork Chops are the perfect way to bring comfort and flavor to your dinner table. With tender pork chops, a rich onion gravy, and a few simple ingredients, this recipe delivers an irresistible meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or just a special weeknight treat, these smothered pork chops are sure to be a hit.

Try this easy yet decadent recipe tonight, and watch how it becomes a family favorite!