Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

Savory Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe for Family Dinners

Succulent and tender baked pork chops promise a delightful culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance with excitement.

Comfort meets elegance in this simple yet sophisticated dish.

Juicy meat wrapped in a creamy sauce brings warmth to your dinner table.

Weeknight meals deserve something special, and these pork chops deliver pure satisfaction.

Minimal ingredients combine to create maximum flavor that feels like a restaurant-quality experience.

Quick preparation means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying a delicious meal together.

Let’s unlock the secret to making irresistible pork chops that everyone will love.

Tips to Perfect Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Pat pork chops dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a golden-brown, crispy exterior that locks in juicy flavor.
  • Simmer sauce gently to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, velvety texture that coats the pork chops beautifully.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, avoiding overcooking and keeping pork tender and juicy.
  • Experiment with fresh thyme variations or add rosemary for an extra layer of aromatic complexity in the dish.
  • Allow pork chops to rest after cooking, letting juices redistribute for maximum tenderness and flavor throughout the meat.

Flavor Variations for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lactose-free version.
  • Low-Carb Champion: Skip onions and use cauliflower rice as a side dish, and replace Dijon mustard with whole-grain mustard for added texture.
  • Herb Garden Variation: Swap thyme with fresh rosemary or sage, and add chopped fresh basil as a final garnish for a different herbal profile.
  • Mediterranean Makeover: Incorporate kalamata olives into the sauce, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

Serving Ideas for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Family Feast Companion: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce and create a hearty meal.
  • Veggie Harmony Plate: Pair with roasted asparagus or green beans to add color, nutrition, and balance to the rich pork chop dish.
  • Wine Lover's Pairing: Complement the creamy sauce with a crisp chardonnay or a light pinot noir that enhances the meal's flavors and adds sophistication.
  • Rustic Bread Option: Include warm crusty bread or dinner rolls to help guests mop up every last bit of the delectable cream sauce.

Storage Tips for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

  • Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the sauce covers the meat to prevent drying.
  • Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Place pork chops on a microwave-safe plate, add 2 tablespoons of extra broth or cream to maintain moisture. Cover with microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature halfway through.

FAQs

  • What makes the pork chops so tender?

The combination of searing the pork chops first and then baking them in a creamy sauce helps lock in moisture and ensures the meat remains juicy and tender.

  • Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, you can substitute Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard for a slightly different flavor profile.

  • Do I need a special type of skillet?

An oven-safe skillet is crucial for this recipe. Cast iron or stainless steel skillets work best as they can go from stovetop directly to oven without changing cookware.

  • How do I know the pork chops are perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145F, which indicates the pork is cooked through but still juicy and safe to eat.

Creamy Baked Pork Chops That Satisfy

  • Savor Creamy Comfort: A rich, indulgent dish that wraps you in warmth with its luxurious sauce and tender pork chops.
  • Master One-Pan Magic: Simplify your cooking with a single skillet that goes from stovetop to oven, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
  • Impress Without Stress: Looks and tastes gourmet, but requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for both newbie and experienced home cooks.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe that allows quick variations by switching herbs or adding extra spices to suit personal taste preferences.

Ingredients for Creamy Baked Pork Chops

Main Protein:
  • Pork Chops: Tender cuts of meat that will be the star of this creamy dish.
Seasoning and Spices:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika: Essential spices that enhance the flavor of the pork chops and add a delightful warmth.
Aromatics:
  • Onions, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that provide a rich, savory base for the sauce.
Liquid and Creamy Components:
  • Olive Oil: Used for searing the pork chops and adding a smooth cooking surface.
  • Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Create a luxurious, velvety sauce that complements the meat.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Dijon Mustard, Thyme: Add depth and a sophisticated herbal note to the overall dish.
Optional Garnish:
  • Parsley: Fresh herb that provides a bright, green finish to the presentation.

How to Prepare Creamy Baked Pork Chops

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C) so it’s perfectly heated and ready for our delicious pork chops.

Step 2: Dress The Pork Chops

Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika all over the pork chops, giving them a flavorful seasoning that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Sear The Meat

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium flame.

Gently place pork chops and cook until they turn a beautiful golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Once done, lift them out and set aside.

Step 4: Create The Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, cook onions and garlic until they become soft and fragrant.

Add these ingredients to build your sauce:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Dijon mustard
  • Thyme

Stir everything together and let it simmer softly.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning sauce over them.

Slide the skillet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Step 6: Rest And Serve

Pull the skillet out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes.

If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.

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Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe


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4.8 from 36 reviews

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

Description

Hearty Creamy Baked Pork Chops deliver comfort and flavor from Italian culinary traditions. Succulent meat nestles in rich sauce, promising delightful dining that satisfies deep hunger.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops

Dairy:

  • 1 cup heavy cream

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 375F (190C) to prepare for cooking the pork chops.
  2. Liberally coat each pork chop with a blend of salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring even seasoning across the surface.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium flame, creating a sizzling environment for searing.
  4. Carefully place seasoned pork chops into the hot skillet, developing a rich golden-brown crust by cooking 3-4 minutes on each side.
  5. Transfer pork chops to a temporary plate, maintaining their crisp exterior.
  6. In the same skillet, soften diced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3 minutes.
  7. Pour chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme into the skillet, whisking to create a smooth, aromatic sauce.
  8. Allow the sauce to gently simmer, developing depth of flavor and slight thickening.
  9. Nestle the seared pork chops back into the skillet, carefully coating them with the creamy sauce.
  10. Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven, baking for 20-25 minutes until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145F.
  11. Remove from oven and let the pork chops rest for 3-4 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute.
  12. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a vibrant garnish before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure pork chops are at room temperature before cooking to promote even heat distribution and prevent tough, dry meat.
  • Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness, avoiding overcooking which can make pork tough and chewy.
  • Choose bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and juiciness, as the bone helps retain moisture during baking.
  • Consider dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk for lactose-intolerant individuals, maintaining the creamy sauce texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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