Juicy pork chops smothered in a rich garlic mushroom sauce make for a yummy dinner! The combination of tender meat and flavorful mushrooms is simply delicious.
Plus, the aroma while it cooks is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! I love pairing this dish with mashed potatoes for a cozy, hearty meal. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer boneless, that’s okay too! Just be mindful of cooking time since they might cook faster.
Mushrooms: I commonly use cremini mushrooms for their earthy flavor, but white button mushrooms work just fine. If you’re adventurous, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a richer taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream. Just know that the sauce may not be as thick and rich.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient adds depth, but you can omit it if you’re not a fan. A little splash of soy sauce can also add a nice flavor if you’re feeling creative!
How Do I Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops creates a tasty crust and locks in moisture. Follow these tips for the best sear:
- Make sure your skillet is preheated before adding oil; this prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—if you have many chops, do it in batches.
- Let the pork chops cook undisturbed until they’re golden brown. Flip them carefully to avoid tearing the crust.
By doing this, you’ll get that beautiful caramelization and juicy meat, which everyone loves!
Pork Chops in Garlic Mushroom Sauce
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 (or vegetable oil)
For the Garlic Mushroom Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 oz (225g) sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving:
- Green beans or preferred vegetable (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes of preparation time and 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps with getting a nice sear. Generously season both sides of the chops with salt and black pepper—don’t be shy! This is your chance to flavor the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Once done, take out the chops and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to brown and their moisture is released. It’s going to smell amazing!
4. Add the Garlic and Onion:
Next, add the minced garlic and chopped onion (if you’re using it) to the skillet. Cook together for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the onions soften a bit. Keep stirring so the garlic doesn’t burn—burnt garlic is bitter!
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the pan. This adds flavor! Allow the mixture to simmer and reduce for about 3 minutes.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if you want a little kick), and thyme. Let this simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes. It should start to thicken a bit, creating a creamy sauce to go over the chops.
7. Bring Back the Pork Chops:
Return your seared pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of that lovely sauce and mushrooms over them. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the pork is fully cooked (145°F/63°C internal temperature).
8. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Once happy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pork chops with generous spoonfuls of the garlic mushroom sauce on top. If you’d like, serve with some steamed green beans or your favorite vegetable on the side. Enjoy your tasty and creamy pork chops!
This comforting dish is bound to impress anyone at your dinner table while being easy to whip up any day of the week. Enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they will cook more quickly, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken. Coconut cream is also a great dairy-free alternative that will add a unique flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pork chops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic mushroom sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Just reheat the sauce before serving and add the cooked pork chops to warm through. Just keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating.
