These pork chops with brown gravy are super tasty and comforting. The juicy chops are cooked until tender, and the rich gravy adds a delicious touch that makes you want to go back for seconds!
Just picture this: fluffy mashed potatoes soaked in savory gravy. Yum! I can’t resist pairing them together—it’s a classic combo that never fails to please. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give the best flavor and juiciness. You can use boneless chops if that’s what you have, but keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Beef Broth: For a deeper flavor, beef broth is preferred. If you want a lighter taste, chicken broth works great too. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a nice substitute.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini or button mushrooms for their rich flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or replace them with diced bell peppers for a different texture.
Onions: Yellow or white onions both work well for this dish. If you have scallions on hand, they can add a nice touch—just use the green parts for a milder flavor.
Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates the dish, but if you only have dried, use less as the flavor is stronger. A good rule is 1/3 the amount of dried to fresh.
How Do You Make the Gravy Smooth and Tasty?
The key to a great brown gravy lies in the roux and how you incorporate the broth. Start by cooking the flour with the sautéed onions and mushrooms to build flavor.
- After sautéing the onions and mushrooms, sprinkle the flour over them.
- Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flavor—you want a golden color.
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth to prevent lumps. This helps achieve the smooth consistency you’re aiming for.
- Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken, adding the pork chops back to finish cooking.
Patience is key during this step! Rushing can lead to lumps in your gravy, so take your time for the best results.
Pork Chops with Brown Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- For the Gravy:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for lighter flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes. You’ll have flavorful pork chops and rich gravy ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning the pork chops on both sides with salt and black pepper. This will enhance their flavor during cooking.
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 4–5 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful brown crust. After browning, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Following that, add the sliced mushrooms and cook them for about 5 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown. Then, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Gravy:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken your gravy. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
5. Flavor the Gravy:
Add Worcestershire sauce and thyme to the gravy, stirring to combine all the flavors together.
6. Cook the Pork Chops in Gravy:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, arranging them in the gravy. Lower the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Adjust and Serve:
Give the gravy a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Once done, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful pork chops with some creamy mashed potatoes or steamed green beans for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook more quickly than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Mushrooms?
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out entirely or replace them with diced bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pork chops and gravy ahead of time. Cook them as directed, then store in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat before serving to maintain flavor and texture.
