Smothered Pork Chops!!!

For the smothered gravy:
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adds depth to the gravy)
– 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening the gravy)
– 1/2 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper (to taste)

### **How to Make Smothered Pork Chops:**

#### **1. Season the Pork Chops**
Start by seasoning your pork chops with **salt**, **pepper**, **garlic powder**, and **onion powder** on both sides. This simple seasoning blend enhances the natural flavor of the pork while ensuring a delicious base for the gravy. Once seasoned, dredge the pork chops lightly in **flour** to create a thin coating. This will help the pork develop a nice crust and also thicken the gravy later.

#### **2. Brown the Pork Chops**
In a large skillet, heat **vegetable oil** over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and cook for about **4-5 minutes per side**, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This step helps lock in flavor and juices, making the pork chops tender. After browning, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, as they will finish cooking in the gravy.

#### **3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic**
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the **sliced onions**. Sauté the onions for about **3-4 minutes** until they become soft and start to caramelize. This will add a depth of flavor to your gravy. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

#### **4. Make the Gravy**
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, sprinkle **flour** over the mixture and stir to combine. Let it cook for about **1 minute** to form a roux (a thickening base for the gravy). Gradually add the **chicken broth**, stirring constantly to ensure there are no lumps. Then, pour in the **heavy cream** (if using) and stir to create a creamy consistency. Add **Worcestershire sauce**, **soy sauce**, **thyme**, **paprika**, and **salt and pepper** to taste. Bring the gravy to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

#### **5. Smother the Pork Chops**
Return the **browned pork chops** to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the pork chops to coat them well. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about **25-30 minutes**, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. The pork should reach an internal temperature of **145°F** when checked with a meat thermometer.

#### **6. Serve and Enjoy**
Once the pork chops are done, remove the skillet from the heat and give everything one last stir. Serve the smothered pork chops on a platter with plenty of the rich gravy spooned over the top. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up all the delicious gravy.

### **Tips for the Best Smothered Pork Chops:**

– **Bone-In Pork Chops**: For the best flavor and moisture, use **bone-in pork chops**. The bone helps retain moisture during cooking, making the meat more tender.
– **Don’t Overcook**: Pork chops can dry out if overcooked. Make sure to monitor the cooking time, and always check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
– **Customize the Gravy**: Feel free to add extra herbs like **rosemary** or **bay leaves** for more flavor. You can also swap the **chicken broth** for **beef broth** for a heartier taste.
– **Thicken the Gravy**: If your gravy needs to be thicker, you can mix a teaspoon of **cornstarch** with a little cold water and stir it into the gravy to thicken it up.

### **Conclusion**

Smothered pork chops are the epitome of comfort food. With tender, juicy pork chops smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy, this dish is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require hours of cooking time.

Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or just on its own, smothered pork chops will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes. The savory gravy, tender pork, and simple ingredients make for a meal that is both indulgent and comforting. So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a warm, hearty dinner that’s full of flavor!