If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Creamy Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is the answer! Tender pork chops and golden potatoes are smothered in a rich, creamy sauce that’s both savory and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this one-pan dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe step by step, share tips for making it even more special, and explain why this dish is a must-try. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The creamy sauce, tender pork, and soft potatoes make this dish the ultimate comfort food.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and one-pan preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love.
- Versatile: You can customize the seasonings or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
For the Pork Chops and Potatoes:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- In the same skillet, add the sliced potatoes in a single layer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are slightly tender and golden.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet and add butter to the empty space. Let it melt.
- Sprinkle flour over the butter and whisk to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the potatoes and sauce.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Pork Chops and Potatoes
- Use Thick-Cut Pork Chops: Thicker chops stay juicier and are less likely to dry out during cooking.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some sliced carrots, mushrooms, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Adjust the Sauce: For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream or reduce the amount of cheese.
Why This Dish is a Must-Try
This Creamy Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops work just as well. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than bone-in chops.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its tender pork, golden potatoes, and rich, creamy sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to bring everyone to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try.
So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious. Happy cooking!
