Creamy Smothered Pork Chops are the definition of comforting, home-style cooking. Tender, pan-seared pork chops are baked in a rich, savory gravy that coats every bite with deep flavor and silky texture. This classic dish is beloved for its simplicity and heartiness, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday meals, or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying.
The beauty of smothered pork chops lies in the balance of textures and flavors. The pork is lightly seasoned and seared until golden, locking in moisture, while the creamy sauce—made with onions, broth, and a touch of cream—slowly thickens as it bakes. The result is meat that’s fork-tender and infused with savory goodness from the gravy. Served with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered vegetables, this dish feels like a hug on a plate.
This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, yet the final result tastes rich, slow-cooked, and deeply comforting. It’s a timeless meal that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
For the Creamy Gravy
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Season and Sear the Pork Chops
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step builds flavor and helps seal in juices. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Prepare the Gravy Base
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter if needed. Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and lightly caramelized, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir continuously for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.
Add the heavy cream, thyme, onion powder, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until creamy and smooth.
Assemble and Bake
Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the seared pork chops in a single layer. Pour the hot creamy gravy over the pork chops, making sure each one is well coated.
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the tops to lightly brown. The pork should be tender and cooked through.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the gravy to settle and thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Smothered Pork Chops pair beautifully with classic sides. Serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up every drop of the gravy. Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach add freshness and balance to the rich sauce.
This dish is also excellent with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread, perfect for wiping the plate clean.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or milk if the gravy thickens too much during storage.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Searing the pork chops adds depth, while baking them in creamy gravy ensures tenderness. The onions and garlic create a savory base, and the cream brings everything together into a smooth, comforting sauce.
Creamy Smothered Pork Chops are rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for anyone who loves classic comfort food made simple. With tender meat and velvety gravy in every bite, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite at your table. 🍽️✨