These creamy mushroom pork chops are a delightful treat! Juicy pork chops are cooked to perfection and topped with a rich mushroom sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Honestly, who can resist that creamy goodness? I love serving these with mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of the sauce. It’s like a hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are ideal for this dish, but bone-in chops or even pork loin can also work. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could try chicken breasts instead.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their robust flavor, though white mushrooms are great too. If you’re adventurous, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a deeper taste.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich sauce, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a lighter version. Just know that it may not be as creamy.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is perfect here, but if you have dried thyme on hand, you can substitute 1/3 of the amount. For a different flavor, rosemary or Italian seasoning works well too.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Seared Pork Chops?
Getting a nice sear on your pork chops is key to building flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start with dry pork chops to help them brown nicely.
- Preheat your skillet with oil over medium-high heat, letting it get hot before adding the chops.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Give them time! Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them to form a golden crust.
Following these steps will ensure your pork chops are juicy and delicious! Don’t forget to let them rest for a few minutes after cooking.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 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:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white mushrooms work well)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take around 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and about 20 minutes cooking up those juicy pork chops and the creamy mushroom sauce. It’s quick, tasty, and sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and softened. You want them to have a nice color!
3. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Next, add the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves to the mushrooms. Sauté everything for about 1 minute until the garlic gets fragrant. This will enhance all the flavors in your dish!
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, it’s time to make the sauce! Pour in the chicken broth while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet (this adds extra flavor). Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve:
Finally, return the pork chops back to the skillet, spooning the creamy mushroom sauce over them. Let them warm through in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes. To finish, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and garnish with extra thyme sprigs.
Enjoy your creamy mushroom pork chops with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a comforting and savory meal!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method—just seal them in a plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about an hour.
What Type of Mushrooms Are Best for This Recipe?
Cremini and white mushrooms are both fantastic options for this dish. Cremini mushrooms offer a richer flavor, but feel free to use any mushrooms you have on hand. Shiitake or portobello mushrooms can also add a unique taste!
Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
Absolutely! You can reduce the calories by using a lower-fat cream, such as half-and-half, or even a non-dairy cream alternative. Additionally, try using leaner cuts of pork, like tenderloin or even chicken breast, for a lighter meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy mushroom pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
