Description
Tender pork chops smothered in a creamy, flavorful gravy, baked with potatoes until everything is perfectly cooked and comforting. This dish is a hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 6 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional but adds depth)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for richness)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and helps the pork chops retain their juices.
Step 2: Season the Pork Chops
Generously season both sides of the pork chops with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning blend enhances the natural flavors of the pork.
Step 3: Sear for Flavor
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and ensures a beautiful crust. Set the chops aside.
Step 4: Make the Gravy Base
Using the same skillet, sauté onions and green bell peppers until softened. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux, which helps thicken the gravy. Slowly stir in the chicken broth, soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Layer the Dish
In a large baking dish, arrange the potato chunks at the bottom. Pour a small amount of gravy over them to coat. Place the seared pork chops on top, then pour the remaining gravy evenly over everything.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften completely and the pork chops to become fork-tender. The uncovered time also helps brown the top for a richer flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once finished, sprinkle with dried parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy with a side of bread, rice, or vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes recipe is a guaranteed family favorite for several reasons:
- Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food. The combination of tender pork, creamy gravy, and soft potatoes creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will warm you from the inside out.
- One-Pan Meal: Simplify your cooking and cleanup with this one-pan wonder. Everything cooks together in a single baking dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add different vegetables, experiment with spices, or use your favorite type of soup. The possibilities are endless!
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients, making it a delicious and economical choice for feeding a crowd.
- Makes Great Leftovers: The flavors meld together even more overnight, so the leftovers are just as delicious, if not better, the next day. Perfect for lunch or another quick dinner.
Serving Suggestions:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious gravy.
- Rice: Fluffy rice is another great option for absorbing the flavorful sauce.
- Green Vegetables: Balance the richness of the dish with a side of steamed green beans, broccoli, or a fresh salad.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Add a touch of sweetness with mashed sweet potatoes as a side.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the pork chops are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish to ensure even cooking. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Thicken the Gravy (Optional): If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the gravy during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, mushrooms, or celery.
- Use Different Soup: Experiment with different types of creamed soup for a unique flavor profile. Cream of celery or cream of cheddar would also work well.
Preparation Time:
- 15 minutes
Cook Time:
- 1 hour
Total Time:
- 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Protein: 35-45g per serving
- Sodium: 500-700mg per serving
Conclusion
Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy is a truly satisfying and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender pork chops, creamy gravy, and perfectly cooked potatoes, this one-pan meal is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious flavors and easy cleanup!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops. Just be sure to watch them closely during cooking, as they may cook slightly faster than bone-in chops.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This dish is great for making ahead. Prepare it completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time when reheating.
Q3: What if I don’t have cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup?
A: You can substitute with another creamed soup, like cream of celery, or make your own cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or celery to the baking dish along with the potatoes.
Q5: How do I know when the pork chops are done?
A: The best way to tell if the pork chops are done is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). They should also be fork-tender.
