These creamy mushroom pork chops are a real treat! Tender pork chops are cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful mushroom sauce. Yum!
I can’t get enough of this dish—it’s great for any night of the week. Serve it with mashed potatoes, and you’ll have a meal that warms your heart! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are great for this dish. If you want, bone-in chops or even chicken breasts can be good substitutes if you’re looking for something leaner.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a nice depth of flavor, but white mushrooms work well too. If you’re feeling adventurous, shiitake mushrooms can offer a different taste profile.
Heavy Cream: This is key for the creamy texture, but you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version. For dairy-free options, coconut cream can work, but it will alter the flavor.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds lovely flavor, but dried thyme is just as good. If thyme is out of reach, try using rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different twist.
How Can You Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Getting that golden crust on your pork chops is important! Start by letting your pork chops come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Make sure your skillet is hot—medium-high heat is key to a nice sear.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to give each chop room.
- Don’t move the chops around; let them sear and develop a crust. They should release easily from the pan when they’re ready to flip.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—145°F (63°C) is the sweet spot.
Perfectly seared pork chops will make your creamy sauce even better! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Mushroom Sauce:
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In just half an hour, you’ll have a delicious main dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once they’re golden-brown and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), take them out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become tender. If you’re using onion, add it to the skillet along with the minced garlic and sauté them for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon (this adds great flavor!). Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and thyme. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the seared pork chops back into the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over the pork chops and let them cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes so everything heats through.
5. Finish and Serve:
If desired, stir in a tablespoon of butter for an even richer sauce. Don’t forget to garnish your luscious dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving!
Enjoy your creamy mushroom pork chops hot, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add even more flavor to your dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through compared to boneless chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just be aware this will change the flavor slightly, but it can still be delicious!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a healthier option, try serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
