Pork chops with onion and mushroom gravy

Pork chops with onion and mushroom gravy is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The tender, juicy pork chops are seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory gravy made from onions, mushrooms, garlic, and chicken broth. This dish is simple to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality results right from your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 center-cut bone-in pork chops, cut 1 to 1 ½ inch thick
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 large white onion, cut in half and sliced
• 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2-3 cloves of minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s ready to finish cooking the pork chops after they are seared.

2. Season the Pork Chops
Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning helps to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.

3. Sear the Pork Chops
Heat a heavy, oven-safe skillet over high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, sear the pork chops for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. If your pork chops are over 1 inch thick, transfer them to a 9×13-inch baking pan and finish cooking in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

4. Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms
Using the same skillet, add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent and the mushrooms are browned. The vegetables will soak up the flavorful pork drippings, enhancing the taste of the gravy.

5. Add Garlic and Butter
Add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet, cooking for another 60 seconds. The garlic will become fragrant, and the butter will add richness to the dish.

6. Make the Gravy
Lightly sprinkle the flour into the skillet, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until the flour is fully absorbed and no white flecks remain. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously as the mixture comes to a simmer. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens into a luscious gravy.

7. Return the Pork Chops to the Skillet
Once the pork chops are fully cooked, return them to the skillet, nestling them into the onion and mushroom gravy. Serve the pork chops hot, generously smothered with the rich gravy.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips

• Pair with Sides: Serve these pork chops alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the rich onion and mushroom gravy. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad complements the meal nicely.
• Garnish for Presentation: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top of the pork chops before serving. This adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
• Serve Hot: For the best flavor and texture, serve the pork chops immediately after they are cooked and smothered in the gravy. The warmth of the dish enhances the savory flavors.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pork chops will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to include the gravy in the storage container to keep the meat moist.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the pork chops and gravy in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet to loosen the gravy and keep it from thickening too much. Heat until the pork chops are warmed through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pork chops with the gravy for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring the pork chops are fully covered in gravy to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Avoid Overcooking During Reheating: To prevent the pork chops from becoming tough, reheat them gently over low to medium heat. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Variations:

1. Creamy Mushroom Gravy
Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the gravy after it has thickened for a richer, creamier sauce. This variation adds a luxurious texture and a touch of indulgence to the dish.

2. Smothered Pork Chops with Bacon
Cook 4-5 slices of bacon in the skillet before searing the pork chops. Remove the bacon, crumble it, and set it aside. Use the bacon fat to sear the pork chops, then sprinkle the crumbled bacon into the onion and mushroom gravy before serving for an extra layer of smoky flavor.

3. Herb-Infused Gravy
Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the gravy for a fragrant twist. These herbs pair well with pork and add depth to the dish. Simply sauté the herbs with the onions and mushrooms.

4. Garlic Butter Pork Chops
Increase the garlic to 5-6 cloves and mix 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley into the butter before adding it to the skillet. This variation gives the dish a robust garlic flavor with a hint of freshness from the parsley.

5. Red Wine Mushroom Gravy
Replace half of the chicken broth with red wine. The wine adds a rich, deep flavor to the gravy that pairs wonderfully with the earthy mushrooms and tender pork chops.

6. Caramelized Onion Gravy
Cook the onions longer, about 15-20 minutes, until they are deeply caramelized before adding the mushrooms. This variation gives the gravy a sweet, caramelized flavor that complements the savory pork.

7. Mustard-Infused Gravy
Stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard into the gravy as it simmers. The mustard adds a tangy, slightly spicy note that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

8. Apple and Onion Pork Chops
Add 1 peeled and sliced apple to the onions and mushrooms. The apple adds a sweet contrast to the savory gravy, creating a balanced and flavorful dish that pairs well with pork.

9. Spicy Pork Chops with Chipotle Gravy
Add 1-2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the gravy for a smoky, spicy kick. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

10. Gluten-Free Pork Chops and Gravy
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. This variation ensures that the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising on flavor.

FAQs:

1. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but keep in mind that bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless chops may cook faster.

2. Can I substitute chicken broth with beef broth?
Yes, beef broth can be used instead of chicken broth. It will give the gravy a richer, deeper flavor, but the dish will still be delicious.

3. How can I prevent my pork chops from drying out?
To prevent drying out, avoid overcooking the pork chops. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the gravy?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the gravy. Sauté them with the onions and mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Store the pork chops and gravy in individual portions in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain tenderness.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, to make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a plant-based butter. Ensure the other ingredients are also dairy-free.

7. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute pork chops with chicken breasts, chicken thighs, or even turkey cutlets. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require different cooking times.

8. What can I serve with these pork chops?
These pork chops pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, and a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad. The gravy is delicious over all of these sides.

9. Can I freeze the pork chops and gravy?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork chops and gravy. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

10. How can I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add an additional tablespoon of flour to the skillet when making the gravy. Stir until fully incorporated, then slowly add the broth while whisking to prevent lumps.