These garlic pork chops are juicy and flavorful, drenched in a creamy mushroom sauce that’s simply irresistible! They’re perfect for a comforting family dinner.
I love serving these with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Honestly, nobody can resist seconds when this dish is on the table! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and tenderness. If you want boneless, they also work but watch cooking times as they cook faster.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini for deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms are a classic choice. If you’re looking for something different, try shiitake or portobello for variety!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk for dairy-free. Just keep in mind it may alter the flavor a bit.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a great herbal note, but dried works too. You can also substitute with rosemary or oregano if you prefer. Mix it up!
Butter: For extra richness, but you can replace it with more olive oil if you want to keep it lighter or dairy-free.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops for Juiciness?
Searing your pork chops is a key step to get that beautiful golden crust and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with room temperature chops. This helps them cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet well before adding oil; it should shimmer but not smoke.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to maintain heat.
- Let them sear without moving for about 4-5 minutes until browned. Flip and repeat.
This method locks in moisture and enhances the flavor—trust me, your chops will be worth the wait!
How to Make Garlic Pork Chops in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Mushroom Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes of cooking time with an additional 5 minutes for preparation. In total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes to have a delicious meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. After searing, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the butter. Let it melt, then add the chopped onion. Cook the onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes.
4. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
Next, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté everything together for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
5. Make the Sauce:
If you’re using flour, sprinkle it over the mushroom mixture and stir well. This will help thicken the sauce later. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Then, add the heavy cream and thyme. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Combine and Cook:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Let them simmer uncovered for an additional 5-8 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Finally, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Serve your delicious garlic pork chops in creamy mushroom sauce hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work just as well. Just keep in mind they may cook faster, so check their internal temperature after about 3-4 minutes per side.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the butter, use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute to keep it dairy-free!
What Should I Do If My Sauce Is Too Thin?
If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, you can mix a tablespoon of flour with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and let it simmer for a few more minutes until thickened. Alternatively, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken naturally.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can bake the pork chops and make the sauce a day ahead. Store both separately in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
