Southern Style Smothered Pork Chops are a classic comfort food that showcases the rich, soulful flavors of Southern cuisine. This dish, beloved across generations, combines tender pork chops with a deliciously creamy gravy, making it the perfect choice for a hearty, satisfying meal. Originally hailing from the American South, this recipe has been passed down through families, becoming a staple at Sunday dinners and special gatherings. Whether you’re looking to explore new culinary horizons or yearning for a taste of home-cooked tradition, this dish captures the essence of Southern hospitality and flavor.
Smothered Pork Chops pair wonderfully with a variety of classic Southern sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice are perfect for soaking up the rich gravy. For some greens, consider a side of sautéed collard greens or green beans with a hint of garlic. And don’t forget a slice of cornbread to complete this comforting meal, soaking up every last bit of that delicious gravy.
Southern Style Smothered Pork Chops
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Directions
1. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork chops.
2. Dredge each pork chop in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook until both sides are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chops and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until they are softened and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
5. Return the pork chops to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the butter and fresh thyme leaves, if using.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the pork chops simmer for about 30 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve the smothered pork chops hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, you can use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter. If you’re a fan of mushrooms, add a cup of sliced mushrooms to the onions for an added depth of flavor. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour for the dredging process. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a slightly different aromatic touch.
