I’ve always believed that a weeknight dinner can be just as exciting as a weekend treat, and this recipe proves it down to every juicy bite. The best Smothered Boneless Pork Chops in Garlic Sauce deliver that restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. Get ready for juicy pork chops drenched in creamy garlic sauce with thyme and a buttery sear—pure comfort! Each tender cut of meat is seared to golden-brown perfection, sealing in mouthwatering juices and building a crisp exterior that begs to be sliced. Then, in a gentle swoosh of heavy cream and chicken broth, garlic releases its aromatic power, weaving through dried thyme and onion powder to create a sauce that’s as rich and velvety as it is deeply comforting. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause mid-bite to savor how simple pantry staples can transform into something truly spectacular.
When I first whipped up this dish, my kitchen felt like a little comfort food sanctuary, with every simmer sending cozy waves through the house. I couldn’t help but sneak a taste before plating—just a swirl of that garlicky cream, slathered over a warm potato or fluffy rice. And trust me, that first forkful had me grinning like a kid. In addition to being a total flavor powerhouse, this recipe is surprisingly accessible. It’s classified as intermediate, mainly because of the layers of cooking techniques—searing, deglazing, and simmering—but don’t let that intimidate you. You’ll be amazed at how easily you adapt to each step. Prep time is just about 10 minutes, cooking time runs around 30 minutes, and a short 5-minute rest at the end ensures the chops stay juicy. At roughly 500 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t tip the scales—especially piled high atop creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy steamed rice to soak up every last drop of sauce. Feel free to customize with a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes; once you master it, this recipe will become a comforting staple in your repertoire.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN THE BEST SMOTHERED BONELESS PORK CHOPS IN GARLIC SAUCE
Before we dive into the cooking steps, let’s talk about the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, from the hearty pork chops themselves to the aromatic garlic and thyme that dance through the sauce.
- Boneless pork chops: Thick-cut and trimmed, these form the foundation of the dish. Their meaty texture soaks up the rich garlic sauce while offering a tender bite.
- Garlic: Freshly minced cloves provide a punch of aromatic intensity, infusing the sauce with savory depth and a subtle sweetness as it sautés.
- Olive oil: A light, fruity base fat that helps achieve a crispy, golden sear without overpowering the pork’s natural flavors.
- Butter: Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to the sauce, while aiding in browning the chops to a perfect golden hue.
- Chicken broth: A flavorful liquid that deglazes the pan, capturing all the browned bits (fond) and laying the groundwork for a savory sauce.
- Heavy cream: Brings luxurious creaminess to the sauce, mellowing the garlic and thyme while creating that indulgent texture.
- Dried thyme: Offers earthy, lemony herb notes that complement garlic and pork, adding a rustic depth to every bite.
- Onion powder: Provides a subtle onion undertone, enhancing the savory profile without the texture of fresh onion.
- Salt and pepper: The essential seasonings that draw out the pork’s natural juices while balancing and highlighting flavors throughout the dish.
- All-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent when whisked into the garlic, creating a roux that gives the sauce its silky body.
- Freshly chopped parsley: A bright, herbaceous garnish that cuts through the richness of the sauce and adds a pop of color on the plate.
HOW TO MAKE THE BEST SMOTHERED BONELESS PORK CHOPS IN GARLIC SAUCE
Now that we’ve got our ingredients at the ready, it’s time to bring everything together. The magic lies in a few simple techniques—searing to lock in juices, deglazing to capture flavor, and simmering to finish the sauce. Follow these steps closely and you’ll have smothered pork chops that taste like they’ve been slow-cooked for hours.
1. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, onion powder, and dried thyme. Make sure to rub the seasonings in well for maximum flavor.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, swirling the pan so the fats combine and coat the surface.
3. Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. It’s important to achieve a good sear for added flavor. Once seared, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic or let it turn bitter.
5. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook with the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a loose roux and eliminate any raw flour taste.
6. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and to lift any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
7. As the mixture simmers, stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to cook until it thickens slightly, which should take about 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure a smooth texture.
8. Return the pork chops to the skillet, placing them gently into the garlic sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for another 10–15 minutes, ensuring the pork is cooked through and tender.
9. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. This is when you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
10. Serve the smothered pork chops hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and watch as the creamy sauce pools invitingly around each chop.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR THE BEST SMOTHERED BONELESS PORK CHOPS IN GARLIC SAUCE
Once your pork chops are smothered in that luscious garlic-thyme cream sauce, the real fun begins—serving and savoring. This dish is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re going for classic comfort or a light and vibrant plate, these suggestions will help you present your chops so every bite feels like an event.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve the chops over a bed of whipped potatoes mixed with butter and a splash of milk. The fluffy texture soaks up every drop of sauce.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Rinse grains before cooking to keep them fluffy and separate. They make a neutral base that highlights the richness of the sauce.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Toss carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at high heat until caramelized to add natural sweetness and color.
- Crusty Bread & Bright Green Salad: Offer toasted baguette slices for scooping up sauce, or a simple salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to refresh the palate between rich bites.
HOW TO STORE THE BEST SMOTHERED BONELESS PORK CHOPS IN GARLIC SAUCE
After enjoying these smothered pork chops, you might find yourself with irresistible leftovers begging to be saved. Proper storage is key to maintaining that succulent texture and garlicky cream sauce without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re planning to enjoy another plate tomorrow or stash some in the freezer for a weeknight rescue meal, these guidelines will help keep your chops tasting just as wonderful as the day you made them.
- Refrigerator Storage: Place cooled pork chops and sauce in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. This ensures flavors remain bright and the meat stays moist.
- Freezer Storage: Let the dish cool completely. Transfer individual portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Stovetop Reheating: For best texture, thaw leftovers fully. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and maintain its silky consistency.
- Microwave Reheating: Cover the pork chops and sauce with a microwave-safe lid or vented plastic wrap. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring and checking until heated through to avoid drying out.
CONCLUSION
In this article, we’ve walked through every delicious step needed to create the best Smothered Boneless Pork Chops in Garlic Sauce—a recipe that truly epitomizes comfort food at its finest. From picking out thick, juicy pork chops to seasoning with a blend of dried thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper, each stage of the process builds a tapestry of flavor. The key techniques—searing the chops to lock in their juices, sautéing garlic with precision, deglazing the pan to capture every bit of flavor, and simmering in a creamy garlic-thyme sauce—transform simple ingredients into an indulgent dish. The velvety sauce, enriched by chicken broth and heavy cream, clings to the pork, delivering layers of savory warmth in every bite. With just 10 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of active cooking time, and a quick 5-minute rest, you’ll enjoy a meal that feels both gourmet and deeply satisfying, clocking in at around 500 calories per serving. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, a laid-back lunch, or hosting a small gathering, these smothered chops are versatile enough to please anyone—and deliver all the cozy vibes you crave.
Don’t forget that you can easily print this article to save it for later, whether you prefer a tangible copy in your recipe binder, a note in your kitchen journal, or a quick reference stuck on the fridge. As you revisit this recipe time and time again, you might find yourself making little tweaks—perhaps a splash of dry white wine when deglazing, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Below, you’ll also find a comprehensive FAQ to address common questions about ingredient swaps, cooking temperatures, and timing to help you troubleshoot or customize the recipe. I’m always eager to hear from fellow home cooks, so please leave your comments, questions, or feedback if you try this dish out. Your insights help turn this recipe into a community favorite, inspiring others to confidently cook and share their own versions. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more nourishing meals shared around your table with loved ones!
The best Smothered Boneless Pork Chops in Garlic Sauce
Description
Each tender pork chop is seared to golden-brown perfection, then bathed in a rich garlic-thyme cream sauce that’s perfect spooned over mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, onion powder, and dried thyme. Make sure to rub the seasonings in well for maximum flavor.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt completely.
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Add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. It's important to achieve a good sear for added flavor. Once seared, remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
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Sprinkle in the flour and cook with the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
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Slowly pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
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As the mixture simmers, stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to cook until it thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
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Return the pork chops to the skillet, placing them in the garlic sauce. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, ensuring the pork is cooked through.
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Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
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Serve the smothered pork chops hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Note
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan after cooking the pork chops.
- This dish pairs splendidly with mashed potatoes or steamed rice to soak up the delicious garlic sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
- Rest the meat for a few minutes before serving to ensure it remains juicy and tender.
