This Southern smothered pork chops recipe is comfort food at its best! With juicy pan-fried pork chops in a rich onion and mushroom gravy, this is the dish your family will ask for on repeat.
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
4 boneless pork chops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden. They will not be cooked through at this stage. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the sliced onion and mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion
½ pound mushrooms
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2 large garlic cloves
Sprinkle over the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift everything stuck there.
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1 cup chicken stock
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
1 cup heavy cream
Return the pork chops to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Spoon the gravy over them, then simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, until the chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Taste and adjust the seasoning. Scatter over the chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
A handful fresh parsley
Notes
Pat the chops completely dry before seasoning so they brown properly.
If your skillet is small, sear the pork chops in two batches. If you crowd the pan, the temperature will drop and you won’t get a nice crust.
Use a thermometer and pull the chops at 145°F. They continue cooking as they rest in the hot gravy.