These creamy Cajun pork chops are packed with flavor! The juicy pork is smothered in a rich and spicy sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Cooking these chops is easy and fun, and they pair perfectly with rice or mashed potatoes. Trust me, you’ll want seconds after that first bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops provide great flavor and juiciness, but you can use boneless chops if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time since boneless will cook faster!
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy ready-made Cajun seasoning, but mixing your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano lets you adjust the spice level. If you prefer less heat, use a milder seasoning blend like Creole seasoning.
Heavy Cream: To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The sauce might be slightly thinner, so you may want to add a bit of cornstarch to thicken it up.
Dijon Mustard: For a different flavor, you could swap in regular mustard or omit it entirely if you’re not a fan. A little lemon juice can add a nice tang if you skip the mustard.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Sautéed Onions and Garlic?
Cooking onions and garlic until they’re perfect is key to a great sauce. Here’s how:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning. If the oil smokes, it’s too hot!
- Add the chopped onions and stir occasionally for about 3 minutes. They’re done when they start to turn translucent.
- For garlic, only cook it for about 30 seconds! Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter.
Keep an eye on them for great results and a delicious aroma in your kitchen!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick meal that feels fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Begin by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Rub Cajun seasoning generously on both sides of each chop to ensure rich flavor.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion, cooking for about 3 minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it come to a simmer. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, allowing the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Return the Pork Chops:
Put the pork chops back in the skillet, spooning some of the delicious sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5-7 minutes or until the chops are fully cooked (145°F or 63°C).
6. Final Touches:
Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. When everything is ready, serve the pork chops topped with the creamy Cajun sauce and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Enjoy your creamy Cajun pork chops with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Just note that they will cook faster, so check the internal temperature a few minutes earlier than the recipe states to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and oregano. This way, you can adjust the spice level to your liking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy!
Can I Freeze the Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
