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Smothered Pork Chops

Smothered pork chops are a comforting weeknight meal featuring thick-cut chops seared to perfection and enveloped in a creamy gravy, perfect for serving with mashed potatoes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pork Chops
  • 4 pieces thick-cut pork chops Look for cuts with good marbling for tenderness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt For seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper For seasoning.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing the pork chops.
For the Gravy
  • 1 cup buttermilk Fresh buttermilk preferred; can substitute with almond milk mixed with vinegar for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup flour To thicken the gravy; use cornstarch for gluten-free.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Use high-quality broth for better flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup cream Optional; can be replaced with a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth for a healthier version.
For Serving
  • 2 cups mashed potatoes For serving alongside the pork chops.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the thick-cut pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the pork chops and sear them until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
  4. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Making the Gravy
  1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and whisk together buttermilk and flour until smooth.
  2. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously and bring to a simmer.
  3. Stir in onion powder and garlic powder, whisking until the gravy thickens.
Cooking the Chops
  1. Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, ensuring they are covered by the gravy.
  2. Cover the skillet and cook until fully cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.
Serving
  1. Plate the pork chops hot, with creamy mashed potatoes on the side to soak up the gravy.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes to the gravy. For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth.