Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, comforting meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Then look no further! This baked pork chop cream of mushroom recipe is the perfect answer. It’s a classic dish elevated with simple techniques that deliver unbelievably tender pork chops swimming in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. This healthy meal is perfect for busy weeknights and impressing guests alike.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is crucial for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best!) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes more. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should start to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet, nestling them into the creamy mushroom sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pork chops. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in extra tender and flavorful pork.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than four pork chops, use two skillets or bake them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Use bone-in chops: Bone-in pork chops retain moisture better during cooking, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker pork chops may require a longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply assemble the dish before baking.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Use different mushrooms: Experiment with other mushroom varieties like shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a unique flavor profile.
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Increase the garlic and Parmesan cheese for an even richer and more decadent sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This baked pork chop cream of mushroom recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It’s a delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!