Introduction
There are few things more satisfying than a warm, comforting meal that feels like it came from your favorite restaurant, especially when you make it at home without much effort. If you’re looking for a quick dinner idea that is both delicious and impressive, creamy garlic pork chops are a must-try. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Creamy garlic pork chops bring together the best of both worlds. The pork is pan-seared until golden and juicy, and the creamy sauce is rich with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan. What makes this recipe truly stand out is its simplicity. It uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your fridge or pantry. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want to treat yourself to something indulgent, this recipe is a winner. With a few basic techniques and ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Even better, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your taste. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this creamy garlic pork chop recipe your new favorite go-to meal.
Ingredients Needed
To make creamy garlic pork chops, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These are simple but come together to create a deeply flavorful dish. Here is a complete list of ingredients along with a breakdown of the estimated calorie count for each item so you can plan your meals accordingly.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless pork chops | 4 pieces (1 inch thick) | 800 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Garlic (fresh, minced) | 4 cloves | 20 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 820 |
| Chicken broth | ½ cup | 10 |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup | 215 |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | 200 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 5 |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish | 5 |
Total calories: Approximately 2315 calories in total
Per serving (serves 4): Around 580 calories
These ingredients are easy to find and are usually already in your kitchen. The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan makes the sauce extra creamy while the garlic adds depth and richness. If you’re watching your calorie intake, there are some simple swaps we’ll talk about later in this article.
Read More: Easy Smothered Pork Chops Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s go through the process of cooking these creamy garlic pork chops. The entire recipe can be made in one skillet, which means easy cooking and fast cleanup. Follow these steps to make it perfectly every time.
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better in the pan. Season both sides of each chop with salt and black pepper. Be generous here. The seasoning will enhance the flavor of the meat.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the pork chops in the skillet. Let them sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Once seared, remove the chops and set them aside on a plate.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Stir it around and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor and will add richness to your sauce.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The sauce should be smooth, creamy, and full of garlicky goodness.
Return the pork chops to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the top and let them simmer in the sauce for 5 to 7 more minutes until they are fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 145°F.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Read More: Easy Pork Chop Casserole With Potatoes
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This creamy garlic pork chop recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some helpful tips:
Add mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Sauté them right after the garlic.
Want a bit of heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative if you want to lighten up the dish.
If you prefer bone-in pork chops, you can use them too. Just increase the cooking time slightly.
Add a splash of white wine instead of chicken broth for a more elegant flavor.
With these small changes, you can make the recipe your own every time you cook it.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of creamy garlic pork chops provides a hearty dose of protein along with plenty of healthy fats from the cream and olive oil. Here’s a closer look at the nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 580 kcal |
| Protein | 40 grams |
| Total Fat | 45 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 25 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 4 grams |
| Sugar | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary based on portion size and any adjustments you make to the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is creamy and rich, so it pairs well with simple sides that balance it out. Here are some great ideas to serve with your creamy garlic pork chops:
Mashed potatoes are the classic choice. They soak up the sauce and make the meal extra satisfying.
Steamed green beans or broccoli add freshness and a bit of crunch.
Serve the pork chops over rice or egg noodles to make the meal more filling.
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps to cut through the richness of the sauce.
Crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce in the pan.
No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to impress.
Read More: How To Make Marinate Pork Chops
Conclusion
Creamy garlic pork chops are the perfect solution when you need something fast, flavorful, and comforting. With just a few basic ingredients and one pan, you can create a meal that’s rich, hearty, and satisfying. This recipe is ideal for anyone who wants to cook something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
It’s easy to customize and works well with different sides, so it can fit into your weekly rotation without getting boring. The best part? You’ll feel like a pro every time you serve this to your family or guests. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-style dish made right in your own home.