Craving a hearty and delicious meal that will leave your taste buds begging for more? Look no further than these mouthwatering Smothered Pork Chops with Gravy. This classic Southern dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
**Ingredients:**
– 4 bone-in pork chops
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown pork chops on both sides, then remove from skillet.
3. Add onions and garlic to the skillet, cooking until soft.
4. Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir to combine.
5. Slowly whisk in beef broth until smooth.
6. Return pork chops to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until pork is cooked through.
7. Serve pork chops smothered in gravy, alongside your favorite sides.
**Nutrition Information**:
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 15g
– Carbs: 10g
– Protein: 40g
**Popular Questions:**
1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
– Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
– Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for beef broth if desired.
3. How can I make the gravy thicker?
– To make the gravy thicker, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking.
4. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
– Yes, you can transfer the browned pork chops and gravy to a slow cooker to finish cooking.
5. Can I add mushrooms to the gravy?
– Yes, adding mushrooms can enhance the flavor of the gravy.
6. How long should I brown the pork chops for?
– Brown the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned.
7. Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
– Yes, you can use olive oil as a substitute for vegetable oil in this recipe.
8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
– Yes, you can prepare the pork chops and gravy ahead of time and reheat before serving.
9. What sides pair well with smothered pork chops?
– Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad are great options to serve alongside the pork chops.
10. Can I add herbs and spices to the gravy?
– Yes, feel free to add herbs such as thyme or rosemary, or spices like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. Sear the pork chops well for a flavorful crust.
2. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for an extra depth of flavor.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
4. Serve the pork chops over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
5. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked to the proper temperature.
6. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
7. Double the gravy recipe if you prefer extra for serving.
8. Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and browning of the pork chops.
9. To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
10. Customize the seasoning of the pork chops with your favorite herbs and spices for added flavor.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. For a richer gravy, deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine before adding the beef broth.
2. Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the gravy for a tangy kick.
3. To prevent the gravy from being too salty, use low-sodium beef broth.
4. For a touch of sweetness, stir in a teaspoon of brown sugar into the gravy.
5. Finish the pork chops under the broiler for a crispy exterior.
6. Layer thinly sliced apples or pears on top of the pork chops before smothering in gravy for a fruity twist.
7. Mix in a dollop of sour cream to the gravy for a creamy finish.
8. For a smoky flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke to the gravy.
9. Experiment with different herbs and spices like sage, thyme, or smoked paprika for unique flavor profiles.
10. Serve the pork chops over buttered noodles for a comforting and filling meal option.
Enjoy these Smothered Pork Chops with Gravy for a satisfying and delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!