These French Onion Pork Chops are flavorful and fun! They’ve got juicy pork chops topped with rich, caramelized onions and melted cheese. What’s not to love?
When cooking these, the smell of the onions will make your mouth water. I like to serve them with some mashed potatoes to soak up all that tasty sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops work well for flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, boneless chops will also cook up nicely. Just watch the cooking time, as boneless chops can cook faster.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. You could use sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a different twist. Just keep in mind, red onions will give a milder taste.
Thyme: Fresh thyme really enhances flavors. If you don’t have fresh, dried thyme is a great substitute. Use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken broth works fine. You can use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is optional but adds a touch of sweetness and acidity. If you don’t have it, a splash of apple cider vinegar can work in its place.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions takes patience, but it’s so worth it! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat. If it’s too high, your onions will burn instead of caramelize.
- Add olive oil and butter to help create a rich flavor. Butter adds a creaminess that pairs beautifully with the onions.
- Cook the onions slowly! Stir them occasionally but let them sit to develop that nice golden color. It should take about 20-25 minutes.
- Don’t rush it! If you rush, the onions won’t develop their sweet flavor. If they look like they’re going too fast, reduce the heat.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have beautifully caramelized onions that elevate your pork chops to another level!
French Onion Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 cup beef broth (or low sodium broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening sauce)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- Mashed potatoes or your choice of side for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend a little time searing the chops and caramelizing the onions, but the end result is totally worth it. The flavors will mingle beautifully, making your kitchen smell heavenly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is essential for enhancing the flavor of the meat!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the pork chops. Sear them until they are golden brown and cooked, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Then, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside; they will go back in later.
3. Cook the Onions:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, stir in the sliced onions. Cook the onions while stirring occasionally, allowing them to caramelize and become golden brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Patience is key here!
4. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, add the minced garlic and thyme. Stir it all together and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.
5. Make the Sauce:
Next, pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and, if using, the balsamic vinegar. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to lift all those delicious browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Return the Chops to the Skillet:
Place the pork chops back into the skillet. Make sure to spoon some of the onion mixture and broth over the chops so they soak up all that flavor.
7. Simmer to Finish Cooking:
Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Check that the pork chops are fully cooked; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you would like a thicker sauce, remove the chops after they’re done. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the skillet liquid and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened to your liking. Then pour the sauce back over the chops.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your French Onion Pork Chops with fresh thyme sprigs for a touch of color and flavor. Serve them right away with mashed potatoes or your choice of side dish. Enjoy every bite!
Delicious, comforting, and full of flavor—these French Onion Pork Chops are sure to impress!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just remember that they will cook faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water in a pinch. Just keep in mind that using broth will enhance the flavor compared to plain water.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and caramelized onions ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
