Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

The Creamiest Baked Pork Chops Recipe You’ll Ever Make

When hunger strikes for a hearty meal, these creamy baked pork chops offer pure comfort on a plate.

Juicy meat nestles beneath a luscious, velvety sauce that promises incredible flavor.

Salt and pepper become your secret weapons in this simple yet sophisticated dish.

Perfectly seasoned chops emerge from the oven golden and tender, ready to impress even picky eaters.

Minimal ingredients combine for maximum satisfaction, making dinner preparation a breeze.

Kitchen novices and experienced cooks alike will appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together.

You’ll want to savor every single delectable bite of these mouthwatering pork chops.

Why Creamy Baked Pork Chops Are A Favorite

  • Savor Incredible Flavor Combinations: Dive into a mouthwatering blend of tender pork chops with rich, creamy mushroom sauce that creates an explosion of tastes in every single bite.
  • Master One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy a streamlined cooking process that minimizes kitchen cleanup by using the same skillet for searing meat and preparing the luxurious sauce.
  • Create Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home: Impress your family and guests with a sophisticated dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared by a professional chef, without requiring advanced culinary skills.
  • Perfect for Comfort Food Lovers: Experience a hearty, satisfying meal that provides warmth and comfort, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients Used in Creamy Baked Pork Chops

Main Protein:
  • Pork Chops: Tender meat that serves as the centerpiece of this creamy baked dish.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Salt, Pepper, Paprika: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the pork.
  • Fresh Thyme: Adds an aromatic herbal note to the creamy sauce.
  • Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright, fresh garnish for the finished dish.
Sauce and Cooking Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Used for searing the pork chops and creating a golden brown exterior.
  • Onions, Garlic, Mushrooms: Aromatic vegetables that build depth of flavor in the sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides liquid base and additional savory taste to the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and velvety texture for the mushroom sauce.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly sharp flavor to the creamy sauce.

How to Bake Creamy Baked Pork Chops Perfectly

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get ready to create a delicious meal. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika all over the pork chops for a flavor explosion.

Step 2: Sizzle and Brown

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Drop those pork chops in and let them dance until they’re beautifully golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Transfer the chops to a baking dish.

Step 3: Saute the Veggie Buddies

In the same skillet, toss in:
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Mushrooms

Cook these until they’re soft and fragrant, releasing their mouthwatering aromas.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the flavor makers:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Dijon mustard
  • Thyme

Let the sauce simmer and bubble for about 5 minutes until it starts to thicken and become magical.

Step 5: Sauce and Bake

Pour the dreamy mushroom sauce over the pork chops in the baking dish.

Slide the dish into the oven and let the magic happen.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes.

You’re looking for perfectly cooked pork chops with an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Bring this gorgeous dish to the table and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips to Maximize Creamy Baked Pork Chops Flavor

  • Choose thick-cut bone-in pork chops for maximum juiciness and richer flavor during baking.
  • Allow pork chops to rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature and prevent overcooking, which can make pork tough and dry.
  • Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free alternative that maintains creamy texture.
  • Pat pork chops dry with paper towels before seasoning to help achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and enhance overall flavor.

Flavor Boosters That Complement Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter, lactose-free version. Use olive oil instead of butter to maintain a creamy texture.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap onions and mushrooms with zucchini or cauliflower to reduce carbohydrates. Use bone-in chicken breasts as an alternative protein source for variety.
  • Herb-Infused Variation: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano instead of thyme. Add fresh chopped basil or chives as a final garnish for extra flavor complexity.
  • Mediterranean Inspired: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to transform the dish with Mediterranean ingredients. Use white wine instead of chicken broth for added depth.

Side Dishes That Pair Nicely with Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Family Dinner Delight: Serve these creamy pork chops over fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce, creating a hearty and comforting meal.
  • Elegant Plating Approach: Present the pork chops on a white rectangular plate with the sauce drizzled artfully, garnished with fresh thyme sprigs for a restaurant-style presentation.
  • Rustic Pairing Suggestion: Complement the dish with roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts to add color, nutrition, and balanced texture to the meal.
  • Wine Companion Choice: Pair with a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir to enhance the rich, creamy flavors of the pork chops.

How to Keep Creamy Baked Pork Chops Fresh

  • Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Separate the pork chops from the sauce to prevent them from becoming soggy during storage.
  • Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent odors from spreading.
  • Place the container in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back shelf.

FAQs

  • What type of pan works best for this recipe?

A cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan works best for searing pork chops and creating a rich, flavorful sauce.

  • Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or turkey cutlets with similar cooking times and techniques. Adjust cooking time based on meat thickness.

  • How do I prevent pork chops from becoming dry?

Searing the meat first and using a creamy sauce helps lock in moisture. Also, avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature, which should reach 145F.

  • Is this recipe suitable for people watching their calories?

While delicious, this recipe is rich due to heavy cream and olive oil. You can reduce calories by using half-and-half or milk and reducing the oil amount.

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Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe


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4.9 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Parmesan-crusted baked pork chops highlight Mediterranean-inspired flavors with minimal ingredients. Cheese and herbs create a delightful coating that brings rich, tender results you’ll crave at dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick / 2.5 centimeters thick)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare oven at 375F (190C) and generously season pork chops with salt, black pepper, and smoky paprika for robust flavor.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium temperature, creating a golden-brown crust by searing pork chops 3-4 minutes on each side.
  3. Transfer seared pork chops to a clean baking dish, maintaining their perfect sear.
  4. Using the same skillet, caramelize diced onions, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms until they become tender and fragrant.
  5. Create a luxurious sauce by incorporating chicken broth, rich heavy cream, tangy Dijon mustard, and aromatic thyme into the vegetable mixture.
  6. Allow sauce to simmer for 5 minutes, developing depth and slightly thickening its consistency.
  7. Carefully drench the pork chops with the creamy mushroom sauce in the baking dish, ensuring complete coverage.
  8. Roast in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145F, guaranteeing juicy and perfectly cooked meat.
  9. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a vibrant, herbaceous finish before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure pork chops are at room temperature before cooking to promote even browning and prevent tough meat.
  • Select bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and juiciness, which helps maintain moisture during baking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to accurately check internal temperature and avoid overcooking, which can dry out the meat.
  • For a low-carb version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add a tangy twist.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 460 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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