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Smothered Pork Chops

Smothered pork chops are thick, golden-seared chops finished in a dark onion and mushroom gravy with heavy cream. This Southern smothered pork chops recipe simmers until the gravy clings and the pork stays juicy, then serves over mashed potatoes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients
  

Pork chops
  • 4 bone-in pork chops about 1 inch thick
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • garlic powder to taste
  • paprika to taste
  • 3 tbsp flour for dredging
  • tbsp oil for searing (use 3 tbsp)
  • 3 tbsp butter for sautéing and gravy
Onion and mushroom gravy
  • 1 onion large, sliced
  • 8 oz mushrooms sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp flour for gravy
  • 2 cup chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • fresh thyme garnish

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet

Method
 

Season and dredge
  1. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then dredge lightly in flour.
  2. Set the chops aside while you heat the skillet.
Sear the pork chops
  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the pork chops 4 minutes per side until golden and remove.
Cook the onion and mushrooms
  1. Add the butter, onion, and mushrooms to the pan and cook 6–7 minutes until deeply golden.
  2. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds, then sprinkle in the remaining flour and cook 1 minute.
Make the gravy and simmer
  1. Whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth, then simmer 4–5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
  2. Return the pork chops to the gravy, cover, and simmer 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
  3. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve over mashed potatoes.

Notes

Pro tip: keep the gravy simmering gently after adding the dairy so it thickens without breaking. Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container up to 3–4 days; reheat slowly on the stovetop with a splash of broth if needed. Freezing is not recommended because the cream gravy may separate after thawing. For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a similar texture with less richness.