Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
405 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy
Description
Easy Smothered Pork Chops and Gravy begins by seasoning pork chops with salt and pepper, then searing them in a hot skillet until golden brown and cooked through. The pork can be bone-in or boneless; thickness affects cooking time. After removing the meat, a gravy is created in the same pan using butter, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and aromatics like garlic and onion powder, paprika, Worcestershire, and an optional pinch of cayenne for subtle heat. This sauce is cooked until thickened and smooth.
The seared pork chops are returned to the pan or served smothered in the gravy, combining tender meat with a creamy, flavorful sauce. The method relies on a very hot pan to develop a good sear that locks in juices and creates fond for the gravy. The dish pairs well with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to absorb the sauce.
Using a meat thermometer is recommended to avoid overcooking, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F with some carryover cooking afterward. Preparing ingredients before cooking makes the process smoother, as the gravy comes together quickly in the hot pan.
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops see note
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/3 cup heavy cream aka whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper optional
- parsley optional, to taste, fresh chopped
Instructions
- Take the pork chops out of the fridge at least 15-30 minutes prior to starting the recipe. Prep the other recipe ingredients.
- Add the oil to a skillet over medium-high heat. Heat the pan for a few minutes (I heated my cast iron for 5 min). It needs to be HOT for the pork chops to get a good sear and cook through fast.
- Meanwhile, pat the pork chops dry with paper towel. Season each pork chop with salt & pepper on both sides.
- Add the pork to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes/side (3 minutes for thinner chops and 5 minutes for pork chops that are up to 1" thick). Pork should be golden brown and cooked through. Test for doneness at this point. It's safe to eat at 145F (a bit pink inside), and the temperature will rise a bit as it rests. If the pork chops aren't quite cooked through yet, sear them for a little longer (don't overcook). Transfer the pork to a plate and set aside. If the pork chops are particularly large, sear them in two batches (don't crowd the pan or they'll steam).
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet, and once it's melted, stir in the flour and cook for about a minute.
- Whisk in the broth until the flour has been incorporated/dissolved, and then stir in the cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper. The gravy should thicken up quite quickly (within a few minutes).
- Pour the juices from the plate the pork has been resting on back into the skillet and stir them into the gravy, then take the pan off the heat. Gravy too thick? Add in a splash more broth or cream.
- You can add the pork back to the pan and spoon some sauce over top and then serve, or just add each pork chop to a plate and spoon the sauce over top that way. Season with extra salt & pepper if needed and serve with fresh parsley sprinkled over top if you wish.
Notes
- Bone-in or boneless pork chops can be used; cooking time depends on thickness.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F to avoid overcooking.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before searing for a good crust; preheat until oil shimmers.
- Measure and prepare gravy ingredients before cooking, as the sauce forms quickly.
- Frozen or leftovers can be gently reheated to maintain quality.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 405 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 405kcal | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Fat | 29g | 45% |
| Saturated Fat | 14g | 70% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 140mg | 47% |
| Sodium | 378mg | 16% |
| Potassium | 600mg | 13% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 695IU | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 5mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 34mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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