Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

If you're looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that's perfect for a cozy night in, then this Creamy Baked Pork Chops recipe is a must-try. These tender, juicy pork chops are baked in a rich and creamy sauce, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that's both comforting and satisfying. Best of all, this dish comes together with simple ingredients and requires minimal prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend dinners. Read on to discover everything you need to know to make this comforting pork dish, including variations, substitutions, tips, and more!

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What Are "Creamy Baked Pork Chops"?

Creamy Baked Pork Chops are seared pork chops that are then baked in a luscious, creamy sauce made from a mixture of cream, broth, and seasonings. This recipe yields tender, moist pork chops with a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetable side dishes. The creaminess of the sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level, making it an indulgent comfort food that’s great for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

Here’s everything you need to create these flavorful Creamy Baked Pork Chops:

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme, if available)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a milder flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh, chopped)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients List for Toppings and Variations

To add more texture and flavor to your Creamy Baked Pork Chops, consider these additional ingredients and variations:

• Toppings:
• Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• A sprinkle of paprika for color and heat
• Crispy bacon crumbles for added richness and crunch
• Variations:
• Mushroom Cream Sauce: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the sauce for a rich, earthy flavor.
• Herb-Infused Cream: Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
• Lemon Zest: Add the zest of 1 lemon to the sauce for a burst of brightness that balances out the richness of the cream.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some easy swaps and variations to make this recipe work for you:

• Pork Chops: This recipe works best with bone-in pork chops, but you can also use boneless pork chops or even chicken breasts or thighs for a similar result.
• Cream: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream like coconut cream (though this will change the flavor slightly).
• Dairy-Free: To make the dish dairy-free, use coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese. Instead, season with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory flavor.
• Low-Carb: This recipe is already low-carb, but to reduce carbs further, serve with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious, Creamy Baked Pork Chops:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or large oven-safe skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. The goal is to get a nice crust on the outside, not to cook them through.
3. Once seared, remove the pork chops from the skillet and transfer them to your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and melt it over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Once simmering, stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using) and continue cooking until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Bake the Pork Chops

1. Pour the creamy sauce over the seared pork chops in the baking dish.
2. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
3. For a golden, bubbly finish, remove the foil and broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Once the pork chops are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese, and serve with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

How to Cook Creamy Baked Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season and sear the pork chops on both sides in a hot skillet.
3. Make the creamy sauce by sautéing onions, garlic, and adding cream, broth, and seasonings.
4. Pour the sauce over the pork chops and bake for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil.
5. Broil for a few minutes for a golden top, and then serve with your favorite sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pork Chops: Pork chops can easily become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (145°F is ideal) and avoid baking them too long.
• Using Lean Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops or ones with a little fat will stay juicier during baking. Boneless, lean pork chops can dry out more quickly.
• Not Searing the Pork Chops: Searing the pork chops before baking helps to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust. Don’t skip this step!
• Curdling the Sauce: When making the sauce, don’t let the cream boil. Simmer it gently to prevent the sauce from curdling.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Creamy Baked Pork Chops look as delicious as they taste, consider the following presentation tips:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or even chives adds a bright pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Serve with a Side of Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, green beans, or broccoli, not only complement the flavors but also provide a balanced meal.
• Add a Starch: Serve the pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even buttered noodles to soak up that luxurious sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Baked Pork Chops

Creamy Baked Pork Chops are best served hot, straight from the oven. Here are a few ways to serve them:

• Classic Combo: Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a classic comfort food meal.
• Low-Carb Meal: Pair with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower for a low-carb dinner.
• On a Bed of Greens: For a lighter option, serve the pork chops over a bed of sautéed spinach or kale.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

• Rustic Style: Serve the pork chops directly in the skillet or baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation. Place it in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• Elegant Plating: For a fancier presentation, plate the pork chop over mashed potatoes or rice, spoon some of the creamy sauce on top, and garnish with fresh herbs and a lemon wedge for color and brightness.

Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures the pork chops are perfectly cooked without being overdone. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F, so aim for that internal temperature.
• Rest the Pork Chops: Let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes after baking to retain their juices.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: You can prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat and pour over the pork chops before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but they may cook faster, so check the internal temperature after about 15-20 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or another non-dairy alternative. You can also skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
A: Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or even sliced bell peppers to the creamy sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave gently to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

These Creamy Baked Pork Chops are the perfect way to enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender pork chops, a rich creamy sauce, and just the right blend of seasonings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it for a casual dinner or a more formal occasion, everyone will love this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Don't forget to pair it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

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