
Description: Smothered Baked Pork Chops are a comforting, flavorful dish where tender, juicy pork chops are baked in a rich, savory gravy. The gravy, made with onions, garlic, and spices, seeps into the meat, creating an irresistible combination of flavors. This recipe is perfect for a hearty family meal and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh vegetable side. The easy-to-make gravy adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the tender pork chops, making this a dinner staple in many households.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (or pork broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Season both sides of the pork chops with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brown the Pork Chops:
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and brown them on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a nice golden crust.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and sliced onions. Sauté the onions for about 3-5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Smother the Pork Chops:
- Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over each chop.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve the pork chops with the smothered gravy, paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or a vegetable side.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Pork Chop Cuts: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. Bone-in pork chops tend to have a bit more flavor, but boneless chops will cook faster.
- Add Veggies: Try adding sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots to the gravy for additional flavors and textures.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy for a little heat.
- Non-Dairy Option: Use non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Carbs: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
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