These creamy spinach mushroom pork chops are sure to make your dinner special! Juicy pork chops cooked in a rich sauce with fresh spinach and mushrooms add a wonderful touch to your meal.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up! Just sear the chops, toss in the veggies, and let the flavors come together. Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops or even chicken breasts as a substitute. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add depth, but button mushrooms work too. For a different flavor, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can skip them entirely or use zucchini instead.
Heavy Cream: This lends richness to the sauce, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just note that the flavor will differ slightly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for this recipe, but frozen spinach works in a pinch. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Why is Searing Important for the Pork Chops?
Searing the pork chops is key to locking in flavor and moisture. Follow these simple steps for a great sear:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil or butter.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps get that nice brown crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Avoid moving the chops around too much. Let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes.
Perfectly searing gives a nice texture and an appealing appearance to your pork chops, enhancing the overall dish!
How do I know the Sauce is Ready?
To achieve a creamy and flavorful sauce, watch for these signs:
- The sauce should simmer gently, not boil rapidly. This ensures the cream doesn’t separate.
- It should thicken slightly after a few minutes. If it’s too thin, let it cook a bit longer.
- Taste before adding more salt or pepper. The cheese adds saltiness, so adjust accordingly!
Getting the sauce just right makes your dish rich and delightful with each bite! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pork Chops
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 butter
For the Sauce:
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (e.g., cremini or button mushrooms)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
For the Spinach and Topping:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus 25 minutes of cooking time. So you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in about 35-40 minutes total. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet (ideally cast iron) over medium-high heat, warm up the olive oil or butter until it shimmers. Carefully add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once beautifully browned, remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Without cleaning the skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes, allowing them to release moisture and become tender and brown. After they’re cooked down, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—but be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, and be sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds great flavor! Next, add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. You want it creamy!
5. Add Spinach and Cheese:
Now, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, which takes about 2 minutes. Once that’s done, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and mix everything. Watch as the cheese melts and brings the sauce together. Taste as you go, and feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon some of that luscious sauce over the top for extra flavor. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for 5-8 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are cooked through.
7. Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these creamy spinach mushroom pork chops immediately, and they pair excellently with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious meal! 🍽️
FAQ for Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so check their internal temperature earlier to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute for topping.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach instead. Just ensure you thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up!
