This dish features juicy pork chops smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce that’s simply delightful! It’s hearty and comforting, perfect for any dinner table.
I love how the mushrooms and cream together make a savory hug for the pork. Pair it with rice or mashed potatoes, and you have a meal everyone will enjoy! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Whether you choose bone-in or boneless pork chops, both work well. Bone-in adds flavor and moisture, while boneless is quicker to cook. You can also substitute chicken breasts or thighs for a different protein option.
Mushrooms: I like using cremini mushrooms for their deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms are great too. If you want to go for a unique taste, try portobello mushrooms. If you’re allergic to mushrooms, diced zucchini can provide a different texture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is essential for that creamy texture. If you prefer homemade, blend sautéed mushrooms and cream together. You can also use any cream soup, like cream of celery, as an alternative.
Sour Cream or Heavy Cream: Sour cream adds a slight tang, while heavy cream gives richness. You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. If you’re lactose intolerant, try coconut cream instead!
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the sauce, but it’s optional. You can leave it out or replace it with soy sauce for a different flavor.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
The key to perfectly cooked pork chops is to sear them first. Searing helps lock in juices and creates a lovely crust. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chops; this will give you those great caramelized marks.
- Season your pork chops well with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor.
- Heat oil in the pan until shimmering but not smoking.
- Place the chops in the skillet without overcrowding them to maintain heat. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Don’t keep flipping! Let them sit to develop that crust.
- After searing, cover and simmer in the sauce to cook through gently. This keeps them tender and avoids dryness.
How to Make Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Mushroom Sauce:
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chops:
Begin by generously seasoning both sides of the pork chops with salt and black pepper. This will enhance their flavor as they cook.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add in the sliced mushrooms and chopped onion (if you decided to use it). Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have softened and released their moisture, and the onions are translucent.
4. Add the Garlic:
Mix in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This adds a wonderful aroma to your sauce!
5. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup along with the sour cream (or heavy cream), chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and dried thyme. Mix everything well to combine and create a creamy sauce.
6. Combine and Simmer:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the delicious mushroom sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy mushroom pork chops with freshly chopped parsley, and serve them hot with the rich mushroom sauce poured generously over the top. They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for a comforting meal!
This recipe results in juicy pork chops enveloped in a rich, savory cream of mushroom sauce, making it a delightful dinner option the whole family will love!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw them before cooking! Thaw frozen pork chops in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Always pat them dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture in the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’d like to make your own, simply blend sautéed mushrooms with cream until smooth. Alternatively, you can use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor, or even make a white sauce with mushrooms to achieve a similar result.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
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, stirring to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s life!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pork chops ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the pork in the sauce until heated through, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful.
