Smothered Pork Chops

Sink your fork into the absolute best Smothered Pork Chops—juicy, golden pork chops blanketed in a silky-smooth onion gravy that tastes straight out of grandma’s kitchen.

The irresistible aroma of caramelized onions and garlic, simmered together with tender pork, means this dish is beyond flavorful. It’s pure comfort food—savory, satisfying, and perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something hearty.

The best part? Smothered Pork Chops are easy enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough to wow your Sunday dinner crowd. One skillet, a handful of pantry staples, and you’ll have a soul-warming meal ready in under an hour.

This recipe is inspired by southern classics I grew up enjoying—old-school goodness made simple, right in your own kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Melts-in-your-mouth tender pork chops, never dry.
• Lusciously rich gravy—perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or rice.
• Easy one-pan method makes cleanup a breeze.
• Uses simple, wholesome ingredients you already have at home.

Key Ingredients for Smothered Pork Chops

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Bone-In Pork Chops

The star of the dish! Thick-cut, bone-in pork chops stay juicy and flavorful as they simmer in the savory gravy. Aim for chops that are at least 1 inch thick so they don’t dry out. Boneless chops work in a pinch, but bone-in adds delicious richness.

Yellow Onions

Caramelized onions form the flavorful backbone of the gravy. Slice them thinly for even cooking. Sweet onions or red onions can be used for a subtle flavor twist. If you want big onion flavor, don’t skimp!

Chicken Broth

Chicken broth gives the gravy its savory depth and creamy texture. Low-sodium is best so you can control the saltiness. If you prefer, beef broth adds a little extra richness, or use homemade stock if you have it.

All-Purpose Flour

This is the secret to thick, silky gravy. Flour is sprinkled over the onions and fat to create a light roux, ensuring the sauce is never lumpy. Gluten-free 1:1 flour blends work for a celiac-friendly version.

Butter

Butter adds richness and helps brown the chops for that irresistible golden crust. If you need to, swap for olive oil or use half butter, half oil for extra flavor.

Instructions for Smothered Pork Chops

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Season & Dredge the Pork Chops

Pat your pork chops dry, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Dredge each chop lightly in 1 tablespoon of the flour to help them get a nice golden crust.

Brown the Pork Chops

Heat the butter and olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once the butter is foaming, add the pork chops. Sear for about 3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. (No need to cook them through just yet!) Transfer chops to a plate.

Sauté the Onions & Garlic

In the same pan, add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Sauté over medium heat, stirring often, for about 6-8 minutes until soft and golden brown. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Make the Gravy

Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of flour over the onions. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to coat. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.

Smother & Simmer

Nestle the browned pork chops and any juices back into the skillet, spooning some gravy over the top. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, until the chops are just cooked through (145°F internal temp).

Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra gravy. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles!

Recipe Variations

Creamy Smothered Chops

For an even richer sauce, stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the gravy just before adding the pork chops back to the skillet. This turns it into a luscious, creamy masterpiece!

Mushroom Lover’s Smothered Chops

Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions and sauté together. Mushrooms soak up the gravy and add earthy flavor—perfect if you’re a mushroom fan.

Make it Gluten-Free

Easily swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend, and double-check your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Same texture, all the comfort!

Switch Up the Protein

Craving something different? Try boneless chicken breasts or thighs in place of pork chops. Just reduce the simmer time so the chicken stays juicy.

Add Some Heat

For a spicy twist, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the onions. This gives the gravy a subtle, warming kick.

Serving Suggestions

Smothered Pork Chops are a comfort food classic with endless pairing options. Serve these juicy chops over fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or white rice to soak up every drop of gravy. Pair with a crisp green vegetable like steamed green beans or sautéed broccoli. For a final touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops and gravy in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed. You can also microwave individual portions in 45-second intervals. For longer storage, freeze in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smothered Pork Chops (FAQ)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
A: Yes! Boneless chops work great, but keep a close eye as they cook since they tend to dry out more quickly. Reduce the simmer time to avoid overcooking.

Q: How do I know when the pork chops are done?
A: Use a meat thermometer—pork is perfectly cooked at 145°F. The chops should be just firm to the touch and still juicy.

Q: Can I make smothered pork chops ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. This dish actually improves as the flavors meld. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

You are going to love these Smothered Pork Chops—saucy, savory, and simple enough for any night of the week. It’s a family favorite that’s bound to become a staple at your table. If you try this recipe, drop a comment or rating below. I’d love to hear how it turned out!