These Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops are a cozy meal packed with flavor! Juicy pork chops are smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce that’s simply irresistible.
I love how quick this dish is to prepare! Just sear the chops and let the sauce work its magic. Perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without the fuss!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are the juiciest and most flavorful, but boneless also work if you prefer. I like to go for center-cut chops for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken breasts instead!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms are my favorite for their rich flavor, but white mushrooms are a great choice too. If you want a different taste, shiitake or even dried mushrooms can add a unique twist! Just rehydrate dried ones before using.
Heavy Cream: You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy whipping cream. These alternatives will change the flavor but can still be delicious!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy depth, but if you’re not a mustard fan, you can skip it. A splash of lemon juice at the end can also achieve that brightness!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops properly locks in juices and gives a nice crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a dry chop. Pat them with paper towels to remove moisture for better browning.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot. A drop of water should sizzle when it hits the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If needed, sear in batches to keep the temperature high.
- Only flip them once halfway through cooking. This helps develop that nice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – 145°F is perfect!
Following these tips will give you beautifully seared pork chops every time!
How to Make Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a slight tang)
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30-40 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This step is essential to enhance the flavor of the meat.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through (you can check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C). Once done, transfer the pork chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep them warm.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and their juices have released.
4. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
Stir in the dried or fresh thyme, letting it cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine everything. If you like a bit of tang, add the Dijon mustard at this point.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will create a rich, creamy texture that will coat the pork chops beautifully.
6. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet with the mushroom cream sauce, spooning the sauce over the top. Let everything heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a pop of color. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, and enjoy the creamy deliciousness of your mushroom pork chops!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless pork chops will work just fine in this recipe. Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten things up, you can use less cream or substitute it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. You could also add more vegetables such as spinach or broccoli to increase the fiber content!
What Should I Serve with Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to soak up the creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables or a simple salad make great sides too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.