Pork Chop Gravy is a comforting classic that brings together juicy, tender pork chops and a rich, savory gravy that coats everything it touches. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a simple weeknight meal. The combination of seasoned pork and flavorful gravy creates a hearty dish that warms the soul and satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this pork chop gravy recipe for its incredible flavor, ease of preparation, and versatility. The pork chops are seared to perfection, locking in moisture and tenderness, while the gravy is made from the drippings, enhancing the dish with a depth of flavor that store-bought sauces simply can’t match. This recipe is not only easy enough for beginners but also fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Cut: Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless ones.
- Pat Dry: Always pat your pork chops dry with paper towels before seasoning to achieve a nice sear.
- Let it Rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain their juices for a more succulent bite.
- Adjust Thickness: If your gravy is too thick, add a little broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pork: Pork chops can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the perfect internal temperature of 145°F.
- Skipping the Resting Step: Cutting into the pork chops too soon will let all the juices escape, resulting in dry meat.
- Not Deglazing Properly: Be sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet while making the gravy to incorporate all the flavorful bits left behind.
Make Ahead Tips
You can season the pork chops and prepare the gravy ingredients a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator to save time on cooking day. The gravy can also be made ahead and reheated on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to regain its creamy texture.
Recipe Variations
- Flavor Additions: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor in your gravy.
- Different Proteins: This gravy works wonderfully with chicken thighs or turkey chops, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the gravy for a spicy twist.
How to Serve
Serve the pork chop gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. For a rustic touch, serve the dish on a wooden cutting board or in a cast iron skillet.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or Pinot Noir, for a delightful complement to the rich flavors. For sides, consider serving steamed green beans or sautéed spinach. For dessert, a warm apple pie or chocolate cake would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Store leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to revitalize the gravy.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or cast iron skillet
- Meat thermometer
- Whisk
- Tongs
If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any heavy-bottomed pan will work.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. For gluten-free options, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for thickening the gravy.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, consider adding sautéed apples or caramelized onions to your gravy for a seasonal twist. In spring, fresh herbs like chives or dill can brighten up the dish.
Cost Breakdown
This meal is budget-friendly, with an estimated cost of $2.50 per serving, depending on local meat prices. Swap out fresh herbs for dried ones to save even more.
Kitchen Hacks
- To easily peel garlic, crush the clove with the flat side of a knife, and the skin will slip right off.
- Use the microwave to soften butter quickly for the gravy without melting it.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, but they will cook faster, so check their temperature sooner.
- How can I thicken the gravy? If the gravy is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in, cooking until thickened.
- What can I substitute for pork? Chicken or turkey work great in this recipe with similar cooking methods.
Pork Chop Gravy
Pork Chop Gravy is a comforting classic that brings together juicy, tender pork chops and a rich, savory gravy that coats everything it touches. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a simple weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prep the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chops: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until golden brown. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic powder and onion powder. Bring to a simmer, allowing the gravy to thicken.
- Combine: Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Serve: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving with gravy over mashed potatoes or rice.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 622Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 21gCholesterol 198mgSodium 466mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 56g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This pork chop gravy recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a regular weeknight dinner, this hearty dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making it and the joy it brings to your table!
