This dish features tender pork chops smothered in a rich mushroom and shallot gravy. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for any dinner table!
Honestly, who can resist a good gravy? I pour it over everything on my plate—vegetables, potatoes, you name it! It’s like a warm hug in sauce form. 🤗
Cooking pork chops is so easy! I love how quickly they come together. Pair this with some mashed potatoes, and dinner is a hit in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for this recipe. If you prefer bone-in chops, they can work just as well, although you may need to adjust cooking time. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breasts are a good substitute.
Shallots: These have a milder taste than regular onions and add a nice depth of flavor. If you can’t find shallots, use finely chopped onions or leeks instead. They’ll give a slightly different taste, but still yummy!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms are my top choice for a rich flavor, but white button mushrooms are perfectly fine too. Can’t find mushrooms? Try using chopped spinach for a different twist on the gravy.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the gravy won’t be as rich. If you’re dairy-free, consider coconut cream or an unsweetened nut milk, though the flavor will change slightly.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get them just right. First, make sure to pat them dry before seasoning, which helps to develop a nice crust when searing.
- Heat your skillet well before adding oil and chops. A hot pan gives that delicious sear!
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. For 1-inch thick chops, 4-5 minutes per side is a good rule.
- Don’t skip the resting step! Let the chops sit covered with foil after cooking. This helps them stay juicy.
Pork Chops with Mushroom & Shallot Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 3 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Gravy:
- 3 shallots, finely chopped
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick yet satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Generously season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes each side until they have a lovely golden brown crust and are nearly cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C). Remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep them warm.
3. Make the Gravy Base:
Lower the heat to medium and toss in the butter into the same skillet. After it melts, add the chopped shallots, sautéing them for around 2 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
4. Add the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and give them a stir. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes until they have released their juices and are golden brown.
5. Stir in Garlic:
Next, mix in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can smell its lovely aroma.
6. Thicken the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well. This cooks the flour and helps to thicken the gravy as it cooks.
7. Add Chicken Broth:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
8. Stir in Cream and Seasonings:
Add in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and thyme. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens up nicely and becomes creamy.
9. Reintroduce Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops to the skillet. Spoon the delicious mushroom gravy over them and let them simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes to warm through and enhance the flavors.
10. Final Touch:
Give the gravy a taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!
11. Serve:
To finish, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve your savory pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered egg noodles. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Happy cooking! If you have any leftovers, they make for great next-day meals too!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add more flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time a little longer, as they may take an extra few minutes to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Shallots?
If you can’t find shallots, finely chopped onions or leeks can be used as a substitute. They’ll still give you a delicious base for your gravy!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be tasty!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water to keep the gravy moist.