When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty satisfaction of smothered pork chops. This classic Southern favorite combines tender pork chops with a rich, flavorful gravy that’s sure to warm your soul. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress at a special gathering, smothered pork chops are the answer. In this recipe, we’ll take you through every step to create this delectable masterpiece.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the culinary magic, let’s gather our ingredients.

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Gravy:

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s start cooking these smothered pork chops to perfection.

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
3. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Create the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, add the butter and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk while continuing to whisk.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook until it thickens into a rich gravy.
6. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Smother the Pork Chops

1. Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
2. Cover the skillet and let the pork chops simmer in the gravy for about 30 minutes, or until they are tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Place a pork chop on each plate and generously ladle the savory gravy on top.
2. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• For extra flavor, you can season your flour mixture with your favorite herbs and spices. Thyme, rosemary, or cayenne pepper can add a unique twist.
• If you prefer boneless pork chops, feel free to use them. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless chops tend to cook a bit faster.
• Don’t rush the gravy-making process. Slowly adding the liquid and patiently simmering will ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.

Variation: Cheesy Smothered Pork Chops

If you want to take your smothered pork chops to the next level, try this cheesy variation:

Ingredients for Cheesy Smothered Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Follow the same steps for preparing and browning the pork chops as in the original recipe.
2. Once the pork chops are simmering in the gravy, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over them.
3. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for about 5 minutes.
4. Serve with a garnish of fresh chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Smothered pork chops are a timeless classic for a reason. The tender pork, the rich and creamy gravy, and the endless comfort they provide make them a favorite in many households. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore the cheesy variation, you’re sure to enjoy a plate full of pure culinary satisfaction. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and savor every bite of these delicious smothered pork chops. Your taste buds will thank you, and your family and friends will be asking for seconds!