Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The pork chops are seared to perfection, then smothered in a creamy onion gravy that’s loaded with savory goodness. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bone-in or boneless pork chops
- All-purpose flour (for dredging and thickening)
- Salt and pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Olive oil or butter
- Yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream or milk
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dredge the chops lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add more oil or butter if needed. Sauté the sliced onions until soft and golden, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour and stir well to coat the onions.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring to create a smooth gravy. Add cream or milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Return the pork chops to the pan, spoon the gravy over them, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chops are cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the onions for an earthy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Smothered Chicken: Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts instead of pork chops.
- Creamy Mustard Gravy: Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a tangy depth of flavor.
- Low-Carb: Omit the flour or use almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless chops work just as well. Just be careful not to overcook, as they can dry out faster.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cook fully and reheat when ready to serve. The flavors get even better the next day.
What sides go best with smothered chops?
Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, green beans, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with the rich gravy.
Can I make the gravy thicker?
Yes, simply simmer uncovered a bit longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).
Is this dish spicy?
Not by default, but you can easily make it spicy with cayenne or hot sauce.
Can I skip the cream?
Yes, you can use just broth or substitute with a dairy-free milk for a lighter version.
How long should I sear the chops?
About 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown.
Can I use a cast iron skillet?
Absolutely. Cast iron holds heat well and helps get a great sear on the chops.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers or mushrooms can be added with the onions for more variety and flavor.
Conclusion
One Pan Smothered Chops is a cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights or when you want classic comfort food without the cleanup. With tender pork, savory gravy, and simple ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers every time. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.
PrintOne Pan Smothered Chops
One Pan Smothered Chops is a comforting Southern-style dish featuring seared pork chops simmered in a rich onion gravy. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (divided)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup heavy cream or milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dredge each pork chop lightly in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté sliced onions for 5–7 minutes until soft and golden.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over onions and stir to coat.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to form a smooth gravy. Add cream or milk and bring to a simmer.
- Return pork chops to the skillet, spoon gravy over them, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until cooked through (internal temp 145°F/63°C).
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with desired sides.
Notes
- Use boneless or bone-in pork chops; adjust cook time based on thickness.
- To thicken gravy more, simmer uncovered or add a cornstarch slurry.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers with onions for variation.
- Skip cream for a lighter broth-based gravy.
- Pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with gravy
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 115mg