These creamy garlic pork chops with mushrooms are a tasty and comforting dish! Juicy pork chops are cooked with mushrooms and a rich garlic sauce, making every bite delicious.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of garlic and cream? It’s like a hug for your taste buds! I love serving these with mashed potatoes to soak up all that yummy sauce. 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for their flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops or even chicken breasts for a lighter option.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor, but white button mushrooms are also a good choice. If you’re not a mushroom fan, consider using spinach or kale instead for added greens!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk. Just know that the sauce might not be as creamy, but it will still be tasty!
Chicken Broth: If you’re looking for a healthier option, low-sodium chicken broth can work well. Vegetable broth is a good alternative for a meatless dish.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops to perfection can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time!
- Start with dry chops: Pat them dry to get a good sear and avoid steaming.
- High heat: Heat your skillet before adding oil and pork chops. This helps create that lovely golden color.
- Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed; overcrowding will lower the pan’s temperature.
- Use a meat thermometer: Aim for 145°F for perfectly juicy pork.
- Let them rest: Always let your chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Mushrooms
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Mushroom Sauce:
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in about 30 minutes total. Quick, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important for getting a nice golden sear! Generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add in the pork chops. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F). Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and have released their moisture.
4. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 1 minute. Stir frequently to prevent burning the garlic—it should smell amazing!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let this simmer and reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes—this adds flavor!
6. Creamy Goodness:
Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme. Let the sauce gently simmer for an additional 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and add more salt and pepper if you like.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the pork chops back to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the top. Simmer everything together for another 2-3 minutes to reheat the chops and let the flavors meld.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is hot and mingling beautifully, remove from heat. Garnish your creamy garlic pork chops with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies to soak up all that creamy sauce!
Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones! 😊
FAQ: Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Mushrooms
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work just fine. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops tend to cook faster. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side depending on their thickness.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops and the sauce in advance. Just keep them separate in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to serve, warming everything together on the stove.
