Description
This Irresistible Creamy Garlic Pork Chops recipe delivers tender, juicy pork chops cooked to perfection in a flavorful garlic cream sauce. Prepared entirely in one pan, this easy and comforting dish packs robust garlic and parmesan flavors, finished with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness. Ideal for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pork Chops
- 4 pork chops (about 1-inch thick for even cooking)
- 1.5 tsp garlic powder
- 1.5 tsp paprika (preferably smoked paprika for extra depth)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 2.5 tbsp unsalted butter
- 10 garlic cloves (smashed and finely minced)
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season them evenly on both sides with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural flavor and create a delicious crust during cooking.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear each side until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the smashed and minced garlic. Sauté gently until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate deep savory flavors into the sauce.
- Add Italian Seasoning and Cream: Stir in the Italian seasoning followed by the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Melt Parmesan: Gradually add the freshly grated parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring well to combine and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Combine Pork Chops with Sauce: Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over them. Let them simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors and warm through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pork chops for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Serve immediately, enjoying the tender meat paired with the rich, garlicky cream sauce.
Notes
- For juicier pork chops, let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute the juices.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for a creamier sauce and better melting.
- If you prefer less intense garlic flavor, reduce the garlic cloves to 6.
- Pair this dish with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Ensure pork chops are about 1-inch thick for even cooking and best texture.
