These tender pork chops are smothered in rich brown gravy that’s oh-so-good! It’s a classic comfort dish that makes any dinner feel special.
You can serve them with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that yummy gravy. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in for more flavor or boneless for ease of serving. If you need a leaner option, consider chicken breasts or turkey cutlets, although they won’t have the same richness.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add a nice texture, but canned ones can work in a pinch. If you’re not a fan, try adding bell peppers or spinach for some color and nutrients instead.
Broth: Beef broth gives a robust flavor, but chicken broth is a great substitute if that’s what you have on hand. You can even use vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is lovely here, but dried thyme will also do the job. Use about one-third of the amount if you’re using dried. I often prefer fresh, as it brightens the dish.
How Can You Get Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is key to developing flavor and a good texture. To achieve that perfect golden-brown crust, follow these tips!
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil and chops. A hot pan seals the juices inside.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary so that they sear well.
- Don’t flip the pork chops too soon—allow them to cook for 4-5 minutes until a nice crust forms.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy chops.
Pork Chops with Brown Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for finishing the gravy)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total—about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have tender pork chops with rich brown gravy on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on all sides. This will enhance their flavor as they cook.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, keep the flavors intact by adding the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are lightly browned and the onions are translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell it—yum!
4. Make the Gravy:
Now sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Next, gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth, making sure no lumps form. Add the Worcestershire sauce and fresh thyme leaves to the mixture.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
Let the gravy simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. You’re building a delicious base!
6. Return Pork Chops to the Pan:
Place the seared pork chops back into the skillet and spoon some of that delicious gravy over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let them simmer gently for about 10 minutes or until the pork is cooked through and tender. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).
7. Finishing Touches:
If you’d like, stir in the butter at the end to make the gravy richer and creamier. It adds a lovely gloss to your dish.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your pork chops are ready! Serve them hot, topped with mushroom brown gravy and optionally garnished with fresh thyme sprigs. Pair with some mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop!
Enjoy your comforting meal! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw the pork chops completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for a quicker thaw.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
If you prefer not to use beef broth, chicken broth is a great alternative. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, but keep in mind it might change the overall taste of the gravy a bit.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water, and cover to prevent drying out.
What Sides Pair Well with Pork Chops with Brown Gravy?
This dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread, which are perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also make excellent sides for a well-rounded meal.
