These pork chops served with rich onion gravy are a comforting dish. The juicy chops pair perfectly with the sweet and savory gravy, making every bite enjoyable!
Cooking this meal always reminds me of cozy dinners at home. I love to serve it with mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious gravy—who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops bring flavor and moisture, but boneless chops work too. Just reduce cooking time slightly to avoid drying them out. I often use thick chops for better flavor and juiciness.
Onions: A large yellow onion is perfect for this recipe due to its sweetness when caramelized. If you want something different, red onions can also add a nice color and flavor—but they are sweeter!
Chicken Broth: You can use homemade broth or store-bought. If you prefer, vegetable broth works as a great substitute for a lighter taste. Just make sure it’s low-sodium to avoid overpowering the dish.
Worcestershire Sauce: If you don’t have this on hand, soy sauce or even a dash of balsamic vinegar can add depth to your gravy. I’ve used both and they did the job just fine!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops just right can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll achieve delicious results! First, always let the chops come to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chops. A hot pan gives a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain the heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Pork should reach 145°F (63°C) for optimal tenderness.
- After cooking, let the chops rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy results!
How to Make Pork Chops with Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley or thyme leaves, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. The total time is roughly 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and comforting dinner option!
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. Heat the oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions. Cook while stirring frequently until the onions become soft and start to caramelize, which should take about 6-8 minutes. The sweet smell of the onions is a good sign!
3. Add Garlic and Flour:
Now, add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. Next, sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Stir well to combine, cooking the flour for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of its raw taste.
4. Make the Gravy:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will help enhance the flavor of your gravy! If you’re using it, add the Worcestershire sauce and thyme as well. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve:
Stir in the butter until it’s melted, giving your gravy a lovely glossy finish. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Now, return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon some gravy over them, and let them simmer together for a couple of minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the dish for a pop of color. Serve these hearty pork chops with the creamy onion gravy on a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, just reduce the cooking time slightly since they tend to cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great alternative. You can also use water infused with a bit of bouillon for added flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and gravy ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to freshen up the gravy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
