Pork Chops in Creamy Sauce

This succulent pork chop recipe transforms an everyday protein into a restaurant-worthy dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly. The creamy garlic sauce elevates simple pork chops into something special, with layers of flavor that will make this a regular request at your dinner table.

I first made these pork chops when looking for a way to impress my inlaws without spending hours in the kitchen. The sauce was so delicious that my father in law actually asked for the recipe which has never happened before!

Ingredients

• Pork chops: Bone in or boneless 1 inch thick the thickness ensures juicy meat that wont dry out
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder: This trio creates the perfect savory foundation
• Olive oil: Use a good quality oil as it imparts flavor to the initial sear
• Fresh garlic: Minced provides aromatic depth that dried simply cannot match
• Chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce while adding savory notes
• Heavy cream: Creates that luxurious velvety texture that makes the sauce irresistible
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty saltiness and helps thicken the sauce naturally
• Fresh parsley: Optional but adds a bright color contrast and fresh flavor finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Pork Chops:

Take your time to thoroughly coat both sides of each pork chop with the salt pepper and garlic powder mixture. Press the seasonings into the meat gently to help them adhere. This step is crucial for building flavor from the very beginning.

Sear to Perfection:

Heat your olive oil until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Place each chop carefully into the hot pan without overcrowding. Allow them to develop a deep golden crust before flipping approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side. The caramelization creates incredible flavor compounds that will infuse the entire dish.

Create the Aromatic Base:

After removing the chops add the minced garlic to the same pan. Watch it carefully as it cooks in the residual oil for about 30 seconds. It should become fragrant but not brown which would make it bitter. This brief cooking releases the garlic's essential oils.

Deglaze the Pan:

Pour in the chicken broth immediately after the garlic is fragrant. Use a wooden spoon to scrape vigorously at all the browned bits on the pan bottom. These caramelized bits called fond contain concentrated flavor that will elevate your sauce tremendously.

Build the Creamy Sauce:

Reduce the heat before adding the heavy cream to prevent it from separating. Stir continuously as you add the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer not a full boil. The sauce should start to thicken slightly as it reduces.

Incorporate the Cheese:

Add the Parmesan in small batches stirring between additions to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce without clumping. The cheese not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the sauce to a silky consistency that will coat the back of a spoon.

Finish the Dish:

Return the pork chops to the skillet along with any accumulated juices from the plate. Spoon the sauce over the chops and allow them to simmer gently in the sauce for a few minutes. This final step ensures the flavors meld together perfectly and the pork reabsorbs some of the delicious sauce.

Save

The secret to this recipe's success is the fond that develops on the bottom of the pan. I once tried to make this in a nonstick skillet and while it was still good it lacked that deep savory quality that comes from properly developing and deglazing those browned bits. Always use a stainless steel or cast iron pan for this recipe!

Making Ahead and Storage

This dish actually improves with a day in the refrigerator as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating gently warm in a covered skillet over medium low heat adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to revitalize the sauce. Avoid microwave reheating which can make the pork tough.

Customizing Your Pork Chops

The basic recipe is delicious as written but you can easily adapt it to your taste preferences. Try adding sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy element or incorporate a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for tanginess. For an herbforward version add fresh thyme sprigs while the sauce simmers and remove before serving. Sun dried tomatoes make a wonderful addition for a Mediterranean twist.

Perfect Pairings

These pork chops shine when served with sides that can soak up the incredible sauce. Mashed potatoes are the classic choice but consider creamy polenta roasted garlic cauliflower mash or buttered egg noodles as excellent alternatives. For vegetables steamed asparagus roasted Brussels sprouts or garlicky green beans provide a perfect contrast to the rich sauce.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use boneless pork chops instead?

Yes, you can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops for this dish. The recipe mentions that bone-in chops tend to be more flavorful and juicy, but boneless will work perfectly fine and may cook slightly faster.

→ How can I make a lighter version of the sauce?

You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to create a lighter sauce, though it may not thicken as much. You could also reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese or use a light cream cheese to maintain creaminess with fewer calories.

→ What sides pair well with these pork chops?

These pork chops pair excellently with mashed potatoes, which soak up the delicious creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus also make great accompaniments. A simple side salad would balance the richness of the dish.

→ How do I know when my pork chops are fully cooked?

Pork chops are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. Without a thermometer, look for firm, white meat with clear juices. For 1-inch thick chops, the 4-5 minutes per side mentioned in the recipe should be sufficient.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the dish ahead and reheat gently. The sauce may separate slightly upon reheating, so warm it slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce's consistency.

→ How can I add more flavor to this dish?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat as suggested in the notes. You could also incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking, deglaze with white wine instead of some of the broth, or add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy dimension.