Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

Irresistible Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Whipping up delectable creamy baked pork chops can turn an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast.

Succulent meat bathed in rich, velvety sauce promises comfort on a plate.

Tender cuts of pork absorb incredible flavors during slow roasting.

Kitchen magic happens when simple ingredients combine with careful technique.

Seasonal herbs and a splash of cream create depth that makes people swoon.

Mediterranean influences shine through in this straightforward yet elegant dish.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this mouthwatering masterpiece.

What Makes Creamy Baked Pork Chops Great

  • Craft a No-Sweat Dessert: This recipe requires zero oven time, making it perfect for hot days or when you want to avoid heating up the kitchen.
  • Celebrate Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for potlucks, family gatherings, and summer parties, this dessert appeals to all ages with its creamy, fruity profile.
  • Quick Assembly Magic: Minimal ingredients and simple steps mean you can prepare this dessert in minutes, leaving more time to enjoy with loved ones.
  • Tropical Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple and creamy filling creates a refreshing treat that transports you to a sunny paradise with every bite.

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

For the Protein:
  • Pork Chops: Lean and tender cuts that provide the main protein base for this creamy, flavorful dish.
For the Seasonings:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Thyme: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the pork chops and add depth to the overall taste.
For the Sauce Base:
  • Butter: Creates a rich foundation for searing the pork and developing a golden-brown exterior.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and builds a savory liquid base for the creamy sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides a luxurious, smooth texture and rich flavor to the sauce.
For the Aromatics:
  • Onions, Garlic: Classic ingredients that contribute a sweet and pungent flavor profile to the dish, adding complexity to the overall taste.

How to Bake Creamy Pork Chops

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to create the perfect cooking environment for these succulent pork chops.

Step 2: Dress The Pork Chops

Generously sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed thyme leaves over both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly coated with seasonings.

Step 3: Sizzle And Brown

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter until it becomes golden and bubbling. Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the skillet and sear each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust develops.

Once browned, transfer the chops to a separate plate.

Step 4: Create Flavor Base

In the same skillet with remaining butter and browned bits, sauté:
  • Chopped onions
  • Minced garlic

Cook until onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 5: Develop Creamy Sauce

Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously and allow the mixture to simmer until it slightly thickens and becomes smooth.

Step 6: Assemble And Bake

Place the seared pork chops into a baking dish and generously pour the creamy sauce over them, ensuring each chop is well-covered.

Step 7: Final Cooking

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

The pork chops are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and appear tender and juicy.

Useful Tips for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Use bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and moisture, preventing dry meat during baking.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
  • Let pork chops rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, keeping meat tender and juicy.
  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, or use coconut milk for dairy-free option.
  • Fresh thyme can be replaced with dried thyme or other herbs like rosemary or oregano for different flavor profiles.

Alternative Versions of Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Herbed Ranch Pork Chops: Replace thyme with ranch seasoning mix, adding extra zesty flavor and creamy texture to the sauce for a quick weeknight dinner.
  • Mushroom Swiss Variation: Add sliced mushrooms during sautéing and replace cream with Swiss cheese for a rich, earthy alternative that enhances protein's natural taste.
  • Spicy Cajun Style: Swap thyme for Cajun seasoning, incorporate diced bell peppers into the sauce, and use spicy chicken broth to create a bold, southern-inspired meal.
  • Apple Cider Infusion: Substitute half the chicken broth with apple cider, sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweet and savory profile that complements the pork's tenderness.

Ideas for Serving Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Rustic Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve these golden-brown pork chops directly on a large wooden cutting board, surrounded by roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts for a hearty family meal that feels warm and inviting.
  • Elegant Dinner Party Plating: Arrange the creamy pork chops on white porcelain plates, drizzle extra sauce around the edges, and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and cracked black pepper for a sophisticated presentation that impresses guests.
  • Cozy Comfort Meal Companion: Pair the pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery herb rice, allowing the rich sauce to mingle with the side dish, creating a comforting and satisfying plate that feels like a culinary hug.

Best Storage Methods for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover completely with sauce to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
  • Carefully transfer cooled pork chops and sauce to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Seal tightly, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm gently in the oven at 325F (160C) covered with foil to prevent overcooking. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore sauce's creamy consistency.
  • Separate sauce from meat when storing to keep the pork chops from becoming soggy. Reheat sauce and meat separately for best texture and flavor preservation.

FAQs

  • Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, boneless pork chops work perfectly. Just adjust cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking and ensure they remain juicy.

  • How thick should the pork chops be?

Aim for 1-inch thick pork chops. Thicker cuts help retain moisture and prevent drying out during baking, resulting in more tender meat.

  • Is it necessary to sear the pork chops before baking?

Searing creates a delicious golden crust and locks in flavor. It helps develop a rich, caramelized exterior that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

  • Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

While heavy cream provides the best richness, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. However, the sauce might be less creamy and slightly thinner in consistency.

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Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe


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4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent pork chops in a creamy sauce bring comfort to dinner tables across North America. Hearty ingredients and simple techniques deliver a satisfying meal that delights home cooks and hungry families alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pork chops (bone-in, thick-cut)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tbsps (30 g) butter
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 375°F (190°C) to ensure proper heat distribution for cooking.
  2. Generously coat the pork chops with a blend of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and aromatic thyme, massaging the seasonings into the meat.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high flame and melt butter until it begins to foam, then carefully sear the seasoned pork chops until a golden-brown crust forms on both sides.
  4. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside, keeping the flavorful pan drippings.
  5. In the same skillet, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and release their fragrant aroma.
  6. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce that gradually thickens.
  7. Transfer the seared pork chops to a baking dish, then lavishly drench them with the creamy onion sauce.
  8. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, allowing the pork chops to cook thoroughly while maintaining their tenderness and absorbing the rich, creamy flavors.
  9. Once done, remove from the oven and let the meat rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure maximum juiciness.

Notes

  • Choose thick-cut pork chops for juicier, more flavorful results that stay moist during baking.
  • Control sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and reducing added salt if desired.
  • Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for lighter, healthier version that maintains creamy texture.
  • Try alternative herbs like rosemary or sage to customize flavor profile and complement the pork’s richness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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