Introduction
There are some recipes that never go out of style. Smothered pork chops is one of those all-time comforting dishes that feel like a warm hug at the dinner table. Whether you grew up eating it at grandma’s house or you’re just discovering it for the first time, this recipe brings familiar flavors with a satisfying, home-cooked feel.
Smothered pork chops are juicy, flavorful pork chops that are first pan-seared and then slow-cooked in a rich onion gravy. It is simple enough to make on a busy weeknight but delicious enough to serve for a cozy Sunday dinner. The gravy soaks into everything on the plate, making it a perfect match for mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttery noodles.
This recipe is all about layering flavor. A few pantry staples and basic ingredients come together to make something truly special. And the best part is that you don’t need to be a professional chef to get it right. With just one skillet and a little time, you can create a meal your whole family will ask for again and again.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making dinner for two, this easy smothered pork chops recipe is a great go-to option. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and tastes like something you’d order at a Southern diner. Once you try it, it will quickly become part of your regular rotation.
Ingredients Needed
To make this recipe, you will need simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. This version serves four people, but you can easily scale it up or down based on your needs.
Here is everything you need for your smothered pork chops.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in pork chops | 4 (6 oz each) | 840 (210 per chop) |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | 114 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | 3 |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 4 |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 4 |
| Olive oil or vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Yellow onions (sliced) | 2 medium | 88 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 13 |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | 30 |
| Heavy cream (optional) | 1/4 cup | 200 |
This brings the total to around 410 to 460 calories per serving, depending on your ingredients and whether or not you add cream. It is a satisfying and balanced meal when served with a side of vegetables or grains.
Read More: Best Pork Chops in the Crock Pot
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by patting your pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. In a shallow bowl or plate, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge each pork chop in this seasoned flour. Make sure each chop is coated on both sides. Shake off any extra flour so it doesn’t clump up in the pan later.
In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You want a golden brown crust. Do not overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is small, cook the chops in batches. Once browned, remove them and set aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir occasionally until the onions are soft and golden. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing by now.
Sprinkle about one tablespoon of the leftover seasoned flour into the skillet with the onions. Stir well and cook for about a minute to create a quick roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking or stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens into a gravy. If you like your gravy richer, stir in a splash of heavy cream here.
Now return your pork chops to the skillet. Nestle them into the gravy and spoon some of the onions and sauce on top. Lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. This allows the pork chops to soak in the flavors and become tender. When ready, the pork should be juicy and fork-tender, and the gravy should be thick and savory.
Read More: Easy Recipe for Boneless Pork Chops
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
There are lots of ways you can customize this recipe to match your preferences or dietary needs.
If you want a creamier gravy, add a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese at the end. For a lighter version, skip the cream altogether and use low-sodium broth.
Add mushrooms along with the onions for a deeper umami flavor. You can also mix in chopped bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
To make it spicy, add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy.
If you are watching your carbs, skip the flour coating and use almond flour or arrowroot powder to thicken the gravy.
Boneless pork chops can also work, but bone-in chops usually stay juicier during cooking.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general breakdown per serving for this smothered pork chops recipe:
Calories: 410 to 460
Protein: 30 to 35 grams
Fat: 25 to 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 10 to 12 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 600 to 700 milligrams
These numbers are estimates and may vary slightly based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. You can reduce the calorie count by using leaner chops and omitting the cream.
Serving Suggestions
Smothered pork chops are best served with a comforting starch to soak up all that savory gravy. Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice. If you prefer something lighter, try steamed rice or cauliflower mash.
This dish also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or a simple garden salad.
Add a slice of cornbread or a warm biscuit on the side for the full Southern-style experience. If you are serving this for a dinner party, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir.
Read More: How To Make Marinate Pork Chops
Conclusion
This easy smothered pork chops recipe is one of those timeless meals that always hits the spot. It is simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress guests. With a few basic ingredients and a little love, you can create a hearty, comforting dinner that everyone at the table will enjoy.
The rich onion gravy is the heart of this dish, and it turns everyday pork chops into something really special. Plus, the recipe is flexible. You can tweak it to your liking, add your favorite veggies, or keep it traditional and cozy.
Once you try it, this smothered pork chops recipe will earn a permanent spot in your weekly meal plan. It’s warm, filling, and feels like home on a plate.