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Southern Smothered Pork Chops

Warm, comforting, and bursting with rich flavor — these Southern Smothered Pork Chops are the definition of hearty home cooking. Juicy, golden-brown pork chops are seared to perfection and simmered in a creamy onion and mushroom gravy that’s downright irresistible. Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish brings Southern comfort straight to your table.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy here — just pantry staples and fresh flavor.
✔️ Incredibly Tender: Slow-simmered pork chops that practically melt in your mouth.
✔️ Rich, Creamy Gravy: Loaded with caramelized onions, mushrooms, and a buttery, beefy base.
✔️ Comfort Food Classic: Perfect served with mashed potatoes, rice, or fluffy biscuits.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Gravy:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced and quartered
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • ½ cup baby Bella mushrooms, sliced (or more, to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Pork Chops:

  • 4 center-cut pork chops
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • Cooking spray or a drizzle of oil

👩‍🍳 How to Make Southern Smothered Pork Chops

1️⃣ Make the Gravy

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and golden (about 7–10 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  3. Whisk the flour into the remaining butter, stirring constantly until it turns a rich brown color (7–10 minutes).
  4. Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking until smooth.
  5. Add the cooked onions, garlic, mushrooms, and parsley back in. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.

2️⃣ Cook the Pork Chops

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat it with cooking spray or oil.
  2. Season pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden and nicely browned.

3️⃣ Smother & Simmer

  1. Pour the rich mushroom-onion gravy over the pork chops.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 30–40 minutes.
  3. The pork should be fork-tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Spoon over creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttered egg noodles to soak up all that gravy goodness.
  • Pair with collard greens, green beans, or roasted carrots for a true Southern-style meal.
  • Add a side of fluffy cornbread or buttermilk biscuits to make it extra comforting.

💡 Tips for Perfect Pork Chops

  • Don’t rush the simmer. Low and slow cooking keeps the pork tender.
  • Brown the flour well. This adds deep, rich flavor to the gravy.
  • Use bone-in chops if possible — they stay juicier and more flavorful.
  • Deglaze the pan after searing with a splash of broth for extra flavor.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep the gravy creamy.

✨ Final Thoughts

These Southern Smothered Pork Chops are the kind of meal that warms your soul and fills your home with comforting aromas. Every bite is tender, flavorful, and drenched in savory gravy — perfect for family dinners or when you just need a taste of the South.

Serve it with your favorite sides and get ready for clean plates all around.