This dish is all about juicy pork chops cooked in creamy mushroom soup. It’s a cozy, comforting meal that pairs perfectly with rice or mashed potatoes!
I love how easy it is to whip this up on a busy day. Just sear the chops, add the soup, and let it simmer. You’ll enjoy the rich flavors without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I like using bone-in pork chops for extra flavor, but boneless work just as well. If you’re looking to cut down on fat, lean pork loin chops are a good substitute.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a deep flavor, but white button mushrooms are a great budget-friendly alternative. If you want something different, try using shiitake mushrooms for a unique taste.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the star of the sauce. If you prefer a homemade touch, try making your own cream of mushroom sauce with sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth instead of the canned option.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a nice brightness to the dish, but dried thyme works too. Just use about 1/3 of the amount, since dried herbs are more powerful.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky since you want them tender, not dry! Here are some tips to help you achieve juicy chops:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps them brown nicely.
- Sear the chops on medium-high heat for that lovely crust—about 4-5 minutes per side. Don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked through; they’ll finish cooking in the sauce!
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; you’re aiming for 145°F (63°C).
- Let the chops simmer gently in the mushroom sauce to absorb all the flavors while they finish cooking.
With these ingredients and tips in your toolkit, you’re all set to make delicious pork chops! Consider serving this dish with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that flavorful sauce. Enjoy!
Pork Chops with Mushroom Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Mushroom Sauce:
- 8 oz (225 g) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy tender, flavorful pork chops swimming in a creamy mushroom sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This will add flavor from the start!
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet; just transfer them to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Mushroom Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. When it’s melted, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is tender and translucent. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and have released their juices.
4. Add Garlic and Creaminess:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk (or heavy cream). If you like a thinner sauce, add the chicken broth too. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer the Pork Chops:
Sprinkle in the thyme and taste the sauce for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Use a spoon to pour sauce over the tops of the chops. Cover the skillet with a lid.
6. Cook Until Tender:
Reduce the heat to low and allow the pork chops to simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes. They’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are nice and tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Give your dish a pop of color by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Serve your creamy, tender pork chops with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to enjoy every drop of that rich mushroom sauce!
Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! This creamy mushroom sauce pairs well with chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the meat to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No problem! You can make a quick homemade version by sautéing mushrooms with butter, adding flour to create a roux, and then whisking in chicken or vegetable broth and cream until thickened—season to taste.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you enjoy some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mushroom sauce while it simmers. Adjust to your taste for the perfect kick!
