Quick & Tender Pork Chop Recipe with Creamy Sauce

When it comes to weeknight dinners, quick and delicious meals are a must. But how often do we find ourselves scrambling for something that’s both fast and flavorful? The average person spends about 40 minutes a day preparing meals, and when you’ve had a busy day, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. That’s where this Easy Pork Chop Recipe comes in. With juicy, tender pork chops, a rich, creamy sauce, and minimal prep, this dish is the perfect solution for those nights when you need something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. 

This recipe will quickly become a go-to for those busy nights when you need a delicious meal without all the fuss.  In this blog, we’ll show you how to cook pork chops in a way that ensures they’re tender, perfectly seared, and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce. Now, let’s dive into how to make these Easy Pork Chops and what makes them so irresistible.

How to Make Tender and Easy Pork Chop?

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

For the pork chops, you’ll need:

• • • 4 thick-cut pork chops (bone-in or boneless, your choice)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 whole garlic clove
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 2 sprigs fresh thyme

For the creamy sauce, you’ll need:

• • • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
    • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • 1 tablespoon dried basil
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1/2 cup milk
    • 1/2 cup white wine
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season your pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat. For best results, let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the seasoning.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is hot and bubbling, add your pork chops to the pan. Cook the pork chops for about 7 to 10 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

3. In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of butter, followed by the whole garlic clove and 2 sprigs of thyme. Let these ingredients simmer for about a minute to infuse the butter with aromatic flavors. Drizzle the melted butter over the pork chops while they rest.

4. Now it’s time for the sauce. Start by removing the thyme sprigs and garlic clove from the skillet. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook it over medium heat for about 4 minutes or until it softens and turns golden. Add the crushed garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

5. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, and stir well to combine. This will help thicken the sauce as it cooks. Let the mixture cook for another minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.

6. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the wine to simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.

7. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce cook for about 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes bubbly.

8. Return the pork chops to the skillet and coat them in the creamy sauce. Serve with your favorite side dishes, like mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp salad. Enjoy the rich flavors of your tender pork chops in a luscious sauce!

Tips and Variations for Tender Pork Chops

• Want a bit of heat in your creamy sauce? Add crushed red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeñosto to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• If you’re looking to lighten things up, try using low-fat milk or a combination of milk and chicken broth instead of the heavy cream.
• Feel free to play with the herbs in the recipe. Fresh rosemary or sage can also work well with pork, giving the dish a new flavor profile.
• This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Simply make the pork chops and sauce ahead of time, and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat and enjoy.

Health Benefits of Pork Chops

1. High in Protein: Pork chops are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, immune function, and overall health.
2. Packed with Nutrients: In addition to protein, pork chops contain important vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, all of which are crucial for energy production, immune function, and red blood cell formation.
3. Low in Carbs: Pork chops are naturally low in carbs, making them an ideal choice for low-carb and keto diets.
4. Omega-3s: Pork, especially when raised on a natural diet, contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.

Make Tender Pork Chops Today!

This Easy Pork Chop Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to prepare a quick, satisfying dinner with minimal effort. With juicy, tender pork chops and a rich, creamy sauce, this meal will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad, and you've got a complete meal that’s both flavorful and comforting. Pork chops are a versatile and budget-friendly protein, and when cooked correctly, they’re juicy and packed with flavor.

If you're looking to elevate your cooking experience, check out the kitchen tools used in this recipe!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best for browning the pork chops and making the sauce.
• Garlic Press: If you love garlic, a garlic press will save you time and ensure perfectly minced garlic every time.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure your pork chops are cooked to the perfect temperature (145°F).

Shop for these tools and more at Zulay Kitchen for more #kitchenhappiness!

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes! You can absolutely use boneless pork chops in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since boneless pork chops tend to cook faster than bone-in chops. The internal temperature should still reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving. If it thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to the right consistency.

How do I know when the pork chops are done cooking?

The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect tenderness and safety.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the cream and butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk and plant-based butter. This will give you a slightly different flavour, but it will still be creamy and delicious.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted carrots would make a great addition to the sauce. Justsauté them in the same pan before adding the flour for the sauce.

What sides should I serve with these pork chops?

This recipe pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a light salad. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple sautéed spinach for a well-rounded meal.