Indulge in Smothered Boneless Pork Chops with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Smothered boneless pork chops are the ultimate comfort food – tender, juicy pork chops smothered in a rich, creamy garlic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Smothered Boneless Pork Chops

• 4 boneless pork chops
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Pork Chops

Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops with a generous sprinkle of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This seasoning blend will help to create a delicious crust on the outside of the chops while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Sear Pork Chops

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the pan is hot, sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. This crucial step locks in the flavor and juices. Once seared, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

Make Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to sizzle. Then, stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute to create a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.

Add Liquids

Slowly pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream. Continue simmering for another 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Finish Cooking

Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low and let the chops simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and the sauce has reached your desired consistency.

Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle the dish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a burst of herbal flavor. Serve these smothered boneless pork chops hot, with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies to soak up every last drop of that irresistible garlic cream sauce.

Tips for Perfect Smothered Boneless Pork Chops

To ensure your smothered boneless pork chops turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

• Choose the right pork chops: Opt for thick-cut, bone-in pork chops for the juiciest, most flavorful results. Boneless chops work well too, but bone-in will provide more tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the pork: Pork chops can quickly become dry and tough if cooked for too long. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F, then remove them from the heat.
• Enhance the garlic flavor: For an even more pronounced garlic taste, try roasting the garlic before adding it to the sauce or using garlic powder in addition to the fresh minced garlic.
• Thicken the sauce to your liking: If you prefer a thicker, creamier sauce, you can whisk in an extra tablespoon of flour or let it simmer for a bit longer. For a thinner consistency, add a splash more chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

These smothered boneless pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Some delicious options include:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes
• Buttery egg noodles or fluffy white rice
• Roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or asparagus
• A fresh green salad or coleslaw

The creamy garlic sauce is truly the star of the show, so you’ll want to have plenty of it to spoon over your chosen sides.

Variations of Smothered Pork Chops

While this recipe features boneless pork chops smothered in a creamy garlic sauce, there are many other delicious variations you can try:

• Bone-in Pork Chops: For a more traditional take, use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless. The bones add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
• Mushroom Gravy: Instead of a creamy garlic sauce, you can smother the pork chops in a rich, savory mushroom gravy.
• Onion Smothered Pork Chops: Sauté onions, garlic, and peppers to create a flavorful base for the pork chops.
• Pork Chops with Cheese Sauce: Top the chops with a creamy cheese sauce, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for an indulgent twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my smothered pork chops tough?

Overcooked pork chops can become tough and dry. Be sure not to cook them for too long, and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Resting the chops for 5-10 minutes before serving can also help keep them juicy and tender.

What is the history of smothered pork chops?

Smothered pork chops have their roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where they were a popular and economical way to prepare pork. The technique of searing the chops and then simmering them in a flavorful sauce or gravy helped to tenderize the meat and create a comforting, satisfying dish.

How to keep boneless pork chops from being tough?

To prevent boneless pork chops from becoming tough, be sure not to overcook them. Sear them quickly at a high temperature, then finish cooking them in the sauce at a lower heat. Brining the chops before cooking can also help keep them moist and tender.

How to know when pork chops are done?

The best way to determine when pork chops are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for medium doneness. You can also do a visual check – the chops should be opaque throughout, with no pink remaining in the center.

Conclusion

Smothered boneless pork chops in a creamy garlic sauce are a true comfort food classic. With their tender, juicy meat and rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a special dinner, these smothered pork chops are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Garlic Pork Chops
• Garlic Butter Pork Chops
• Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Potatoes
• Texas Roadhouse Pork Chop

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