Pork Chops Italiano are juicy and flavorful, cooked with garlic, tomatoes, and Italian herbs. They make a tasty meal that’s easy to whip up any night of the week!
I love pairing these chops with pasta or a fresh salad for a complete dinner. It’s like bringing a little Italian restaurant to my kitchen! Buon appetito! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless pork chops. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: A staple in Italian cooking, olive oil adds richness. If you’re out, canola or vegetable oil works too, though they won’t offer the same flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish its aromatic punch. In a pinch, use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon equals one clove. But fresh is always best for flavor!
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness when halved. Diced canned tomatoes are a good alternative, especially when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season. Just be sure to drain them a bit to avoid extra liquid.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini or button mushrooms, but feel free to swap them for others like portobello or shiitake for a different taste.
White Wine: This enhances the sauce’s flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken stock works as a nice substitute for depth without the alcohol.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops for Juiciness?
Searing the pork chops properly locks in their juices, keeping them tender. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This prevents sticking and promotes browning.
- Pat the chops dry with paper towels. Moisture can steam the meat, preventing a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Searing too many chops at once can lower the skillet’s temperature and lead to steaming.
- Cook them undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes per side; resist flipping until they develop a good crust.
Remember, cooking times may vary by thickness, so use a meat thermometer for best results. Aim for 145°F for perfectly cooked pork. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Pork Chops Italiano
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 cup diced canned tomatoes)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with some paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. It’s important to season well for flavor!
2. Sear the Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops. Allow them to sear for about 4–5 minutes on each side, until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. You can check for doneness with a meat thermometer—it should read 145°F. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
Now, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
4. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook them for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their juices.
5. Create the Sauce:
Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes (or the canned diced tomatoes if you’re using those), along with the dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Allow everything to cook for about 5 minutes so the tomatoes soften and create a lovely sauce.
6. Deglaze with Wine:
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the skillet now, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift off any tasty browned bits. Let the sauce simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s slightly reduced. Yum!
7. Combine and Heat:
Return the pork chops to the pan, spooning some of that delicious sauce over them. Let everything cook together for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors and heat the pork through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your dish with fresh thyme sprigs for a beautiful touch. Serve the Pork Chops Italiano hot, spooning extra sauce over each chop. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or some crusty bread!
Enjoy your scrumptious Pork Chops Italiano!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they will cook faster, so start checking for doneness around 3-4 minutes per side.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable stock. This will still provide a nice depth to the sauce without the alcohol.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Pork Chops Italiano in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is tender.
