Tender Smothered Pork Chops

Name: Tender Smothered Pork Chops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; 1 cup buttermilk; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

I love making Tender Smothered Pork Chops on cozy nights when comfort food is a must. The combination of seasoned chops simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy makes every bite a delight. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. I can't resist serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery biscuits to soak up all that delicious gravy. It's simple, yet it's a dish that feels special enough for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:14:29.565Z

When experimenting with Tender Smothered Pork Chops, I discovered that marinating the pork in a bit of buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a lovely depth of flavor. One of my favorite methods is to sear the pork chops first to develop a golden crust, then let them simmer in the gravy, which enhances the overall flavor. Trying different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, made an incredible difference as well.

What I found particularly satisfying is the way the gravy thickens as it cooks. I always use a combination of broth and cream for richness, and this blend has never failed me. Trust me, serving these chops over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or rice will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory gravy that complements the tender meat perfectly
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Versatile side dish pairings that elevate the meal

The Magic of Buttermilk

Using buttermilk in the marinade is a game changer for these pork chops. The acidity of the buttermilk tenderizes the meat while adding a subtle tangy flavor. Allowing the chops to marinate for at least 30 minutes ensures that they absorb the flavors, but if you have the time, marinating overnight elevates the dish even further. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before searing for the best browning.

It's also important to remember to season the buttermilk with salt and pepper to enhance the chops' flavor right from the start. I find that a simple blend of sea salt and fresh cracked pepper works wonders. This marinade technique is not only beneficial for pork but can also be applied to chicken and other meats that benefit from a tender touch.

Gravy Techniques

Making the gravy from the drippings of the seared pork chops adds a depth of flavor that store-bought sauces simply can't replicate. After removing the chops, be sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; these caramelized morsels are packed with flavor. When adding the flour to the sautéed onions and garlic, cook for about a minute until you achieve a light golden color; this ensures the flour flavor cooks out, resulting in a smooth texture for your gravy.

Gradually whisking in the broth and cream helps prevent lumps from forming. If you have trouble achieving the right consistency, don’t hesitate to add a little more broth or cream until you get a smooth, pourable gravy. The key is to keep stirring until it reaches a glossy finish before returning the meat to the pan.

Serving Suggestions

For an optimal serving experience, pair your smothered pork chops with sides that can soak up all that luscious gravy. Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, but consider alternatives like a buttery polenta or fluffy rice. For a touch of added indulgence, folding in some roasted garlic into your mashed potatoes can elevate the dish with a rich flavor that perfectly complements the savory gravy.

If you’re looking to mix things up, a side of sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts provides a delightful crunch that balances the tender, rich pork. And don’t forget about bread—warm, buttery biscuits are excellent for sopping up every last drop of gravy, making each forkful a comforting delight.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Tender Smothered Pork Chops:

For the Pork Chops

4 bone-in pork chops
1 cup buttermilk
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Gravy

1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Ensure everything is ready to go before you start cooking for the best results!

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Tender Smothered Pork Chops:

Marinate the Pork Chops

In a bowl, combine the pork chops with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.

Sear the Chops

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade and sear them for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Gravy

In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir until mixed.

Combine and Simmer

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add thyme and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer, then return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning gravy over them. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Serve

Once cooked through, serve the pork chops with plenty of gravy over rice or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

Let the dish cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the gravy just before serving. It really elevates the dish.

Storage Tips

Should you have any leftovers, storing them properly is key to enjoying this dish again. Allow the pork chops and gravy to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the chops and gravy in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the meat; you can add a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency if necessary.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can marinate the pork chops a day in advance. Just make sure to grill or sear them the day you make the gravy to ensure they stay juicy and flavorful. The components of the gravy can also be made ahead and reheated just before serving; this helps save time on busy weeknights.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about five minutes. Additionally, for a lower-fat option, you could replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that this may alter the rich, smooth texture of the gravy slightly.

For those looking for gluten-free options, swapping all-purpose flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend can work well. Just remember to use a smaller amount of cornstarch—about one tablespoon mixed with double the broth—as it thickens faster than flour. This ensures you maintain the desired thickness of your gravy without compromising flavor.

Flavor Variations

Experimenting with different herbs can take this dish in exciting new directions. For instance, substituting dried basil or rosemary for thyme can impart a delightful twist to the gravy. You might also consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the gravy for an extra layer of complexity and brightness.

For a spicy kick, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering the gravy. This will elevate the flavor profile and bring a warmth that pairs beautifully with the savory pork. Adjust these according to your preference, and don’t be afraid to play around to gel the recipe to your tastes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless pork chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but adjust the cooking time slightly as they may need less time to cook.

→ Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for about 5 minutes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the pork chops and gravy. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.