Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops

Ingredients List

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Timing

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops

1. Prep the Pork Chops: Season your pork chops with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Set them aside while you heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Sear the Chops: Once the pan is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

3. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Make the Sauce: Add the cream of mushroom soup and milk to the pan, stirring until everything is well combined. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

5. Simmer the Pork Chops: Return the pork chops to the pan, spooning some sauce over them. Cover and let them simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender.

6. Serve: Spoon the creamy mushroom sauce over the pork chops and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy.

Tips for Cooking Juicy and Tender Pork Chops Every Time

1- Don’t overcook: Pork chops can dry out easily, so make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should be 145°F.

2- Rest the chops: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps lock in the juices.

3- Choose thick chops: Thicker pork chops tend to stay juicier compared to thin cuts.

Variations and Substitutions for Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops

1- Switch up the soup: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom, you can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.

2- Add fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a fragrant touch to the dish.

3- Go gluten-free: Opt for a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to make this recipe gluten-friendly.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

1- Mashed potatoes: The creamy sauce works beautifully drizzled over a bed of mashed potatoes.

2- Steamed vegetables: Try green beans or broccoli to add a healthy and colorful side.

3- Rice or pasta: Serve these pork chops over rice or egg noodles for a heartier meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops

• Store: Place any leftover pork chops in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, warm the pork chops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover the dish to avoid drying them out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Pork Chops

1- Overcooking: Pork chops are lean, so they can become tough if overcooked. Use a thermometer to get the perfect doneness.

2- Skipping the sear: Searing locks in flavor and gives the pork chops a deliciously crispy edge.

3- Not using enough seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season generously. The combination of salt, pepper, and thyme brings out the best in this dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 700mg

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner, these Cream of Mushroom Pork Chops are the perfect solution. They’re packed with flavor, and the creamy mushroom sauce is simply irresistible. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit in my home. Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in yours, too.