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Hey y’all! If you’re craving comfort food that warms the soul and brings everyone to the table, these Smothered Pork Chops are just what you need. Bathed in a lush, creamy onion gravy, every bite is packed with rich Southern flavor that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy Sunday meal. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Smothered Pork Chops Recipe

Ultimate comfort food with juicy pork chops and a luscious, savory gravy.

Quick and easy prep—perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.
Versatile meal that goes great with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits.
Customizable with simple pantry staples and your favorite seasonings.

Family-approved and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients for Smothered Pork Chops

4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, 2 pounds total)
1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions: How to Make Smothered Pork Chops

Step 1: Prep and Season The Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Dredge the chops lightly in flour, tapping off excess. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the flour for the gravy.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown (they’ll finish cooking later).
Transfer the chops to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Savory Gravy

In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, toss in the sliced onions.

Cook the onions for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until very soft and caramelized.
Add the garlic and reserved flour; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer and let thicken for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer the Pork Chops

Reduce heat to low. Return pork chops—and any accumulated juices—to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the pork is just cooked through (145°F internal temperature). Stir in heavy cream and thyme; cook, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes more.
Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, spooning extra gravy over each chop.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Smothered Pork Chops Notes & Helpful Tips

For extra tenderness, use bone-in chops—learn more about pork chop cuts from Simply Recipes.
If your gravy is too thick, whisk in a splash of extra broth or water.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—if needed, sear chops in batches for the best crust.

Smothered Pork Chops Recipe Variations

Mushroom Gravy: Add 8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms with onions for an earthy twist.
Spicy Cajun: Swap paprika for Cajun seasoning and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Lighter Version: Use boneless pork chops and swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or whole milk.

Required Equipment for Smothered Pork Chops

Large skillet or sauté pan (with lid)
Tongs

Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Paper towels

Storage Instructions for Smothered Pork Chops

Allow leftovers to cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the gravy thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Smothered Pork Chops Pairings and Serving Ideas

Spoon over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered egg noodles to soak up all the savory gravy.
Serve with steamed green beans or Southern-style collard greens for a well-rounded meal.

Pair with warm buttermilk biscuits for extra comfort.

Pro Tips for the Best Smothered Pork Chops

Check doneness with a meat thermometer for perfect results—learn why from Serious Eats.
Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before serving, so the juices redistribute and every bite stays moist.

For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it—find a great recipe at Food Network.

Smothered Pork Chops FAQ

Can I use boneless pork chops instead?: Yes! Boneless chops work well; just reduce simmering time by 2-3 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Can I make Smothered Pork Chops ahead of time?: Absolutely. Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge, then gently reheat before serving.
What if my gravy is too thin?: Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water).

Smothered Pork Chops

Why You’ll Love This Smothered Pork Chops Recipe

Ingredients for Smothered Pork Chops