Classic Southern Smothered Pork Chops
This Classic Southern Smothered Pork Chops recipe brings back fond memories of family gatherings at grandma's house. With a rich, savory gravy made from simple ingredients like beef broth and onions, these pork chops are a comforting dish that nourishes the soul. Cooked to perfection and smothered in a luscious sauce, they make a delightful pairing with fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes. This recipe retains every bit of its traditional essence while modernizing the cooking method with nonstick spray, ensuring a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cornstarch
2 tablespoons (none)
Beef broth
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can (none)
Garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Pork chops
6 pieces, 1/2 inch thick (none)
Onions
2, sliced (sliced)
Nonstick cooking spray
as needed (for cooking)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and beef broth until smooth and set aside.
2
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
3
Season the pork chops on both sides with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4
Place the seasoned chops in the hot skillet and sear them for about 10 minutes, cooking until they are well-browned on each side. Remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.
5
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté over medium heat until they are translucent but still retain some crispness, about 4-5 minutes.
6
Stir the cornstarch mixture to ensure it’s well combined, then pour it into the skillet with the onions. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
7
Return the browned pork chops to the skillet, nestling them in the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender.
8
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve the smothered pork chops hot, generously coated with the rich gravy.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Classic Southern Smothered Pork Chops?
They are a traditional comfort food dish consisting of seasoned pork chops seared and then simmered in a rich, onion-based gravy.
What ingredients are needed for the gravy?
The gravy is made from a combination of beef broth, cornstarch, and two sliced onions.
How long should I sear the pork chops?
The pork chops should be seared in a hot skillet for about 10 minutes until they are well-browned on both sides.
What thickness should the pork chops be for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 pork chops that are 1/2 inch thick.
How many pork chops does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed for 6 pieces of pork chops.
What seasonings are used for the meat?
The chops are seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
What are the best side dishes for smothered pork chops?
This dish pairs delightfully with fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes.
How is the gravy thickened?
The gravy is thickened by whisking cornstarch into beef broth and cooking the mixture until it comes to a boil.
Is there a healthier twist to this traditional recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses nonstick cooking spray instead of heavy oil or butter for a healthier version that still retains its flavor.
How long do the onions need to sauté?
The onions should be sautéed for about 4 to 5 minutes until they are translucent.
Do I need to use oil to cook the pork?
No, you can use nonstick cooking spray to sear the pork chops.
What type of broth is used in the gravy?
The recipe specifies using one 14.5-ounce can of beef broth.
How long do the pork chops simmer in the gravy?
Once returned to the skillet, the chops should simmer in the gravy for 10 to 12 minutes.
Can I adjust the seasoning after cooking?
Yes, you should taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as desired.
What heat setting is used for searing the pork?
The pork chops should be seared over medium heat in a large skillet.
How do I prepare the cornstarch mixture?
Whisk the cornstarch and beef broth together in a small bowl until the mixture is completely smooth.
When do I add the pork chops back into the pan?
Return the pork chops to the skillet after the onion and broth mixture has boiled and thickened.
Should I cover the pan while simmering?
Yes, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low for the final 10-12 minutes of cooking.
Is this a one-pan meal?
Yes, this is considered a one-pan meal as the meat and gravy are prepared in the same large skillet.
What is the primary flavor profile of this recipe?
The flavor is described as rich, savory, and comforting, typical of traditional Southern cooking.
How do I prevent the cornstarch from clumping?
Ensure you whisk the cornstarch into the broth until smooth before adding it to the hot pan.
How should the onions be prepared?
The recipe requires two onions that have been sliced.
Why are the pork chops removed from the pan after searing?
They are set aside so the onions can be sautéed and the gravy can be thickened in the same skillet.
What texture should the onions have?
The onions should be translucent but still retain a bit of crispness.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients: cornstarch, beef broth, garlic powder, pepper, salt, pork chops, onions, and cooking spray.
Can I use thick-cut pork chops?
The recipe is optimized for 1/2 inch thick chops; thicker cuts may require a longer simmering time.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is described as a family recipe that nourishes the soul and is perfect for gatherings.
How do I serve the smothered pork chops?
Serve them hot and make sure they are generously coated with the rich onion gravy.
Does this gravy contain dairy?
No, the gravy is made with beef broth and cornstarch rather than milk or cream.
What is the first step of the recipe?
The first step is to whisk the cornstarch and beef broth together in a small bowl.