These creamy garlic pork chops are a winning dinner idea! They’re juicy, super easy to make, and covered in a rich garlic sauce that you’ll love.
Honestly, who can resist a dish that combines quick cooking with deliciousness? I can’t! I serve these chops with some mashed potatoes to soak up all that yummy sauce. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. Bone-in is usually juicier, but boneless cooks faster. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken breasts or thighs instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves deliver a fantastic flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you could use garlic powder, but the taste will be different. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals a couple of cloves.
Heavy Cream: The cream makes the dish rich and creamy. You can substitute half-and-half for a slightly lighter version, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, but keep in mind the flavor will change.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can work just fine.
Dijon Mustard: While optional, it brings a subtle tang. If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard can work, but use it sparingly as it’s more potent.
How Do I Make Sure the Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy pork chops is all about cooking them just right. Here’s how!
- Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Cook them in a hot pan to achieve a nice golden crust, which locks in moisture.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F (63°C). An instant-read thermometer helps!
- Let them rest after cooking! This helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite.
Remember, don’t rush the cooking process. It’s better to cook them a few extra minutes than to serve undercooked pork.
Creamy Garlic Pork Chops Easy Dinner Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 6-8 whole garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you can have a delightful dinner ready in about 25-30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning your pork chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This helps to enhance the flavor and make them yummy!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a nice golden brown and are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C). When done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and add the peeled garlic cloves to the same skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes or until they become fragrant and begin to turn lightly golden. This will help infuse the oil with a wonderful garlic flavor.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and give it a good stir to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Next, add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and thyme leaves. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Take the butter and stir it into the sauce until it melts completely. This will make the sauce nice and smooth and oh-so-creamy!
6. Combine the Chops and Sauce:
Return the beautifully cooked pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of that delightful sauce and garlic over them. Allow the chops to warm in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your creamy garlic pork chops hot, and enjoy with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or rice to soak up that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your tender pork chops swimming in flavorful creamy garlic sauce! It’s an easy and delicious dinner that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Pork Chops
Can I Use Another Type of Meat Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts or thighs, or even turkey cutlets. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is cooked through (chicken should be at least 165°F/75°C).
How Can I Thicken the Sauce Further?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional minute, and it will thicken up nicely!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Garlic Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also make great side dishes!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on low heat and then add the cooked pork chops to warm through before serving.
