This Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners. Tender pork chops and potatoes are smothered in a rich, savory gravy, creating a one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor. With the option to customize seasonings and add-ins like bell peppers, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. But is it a YAY or a NAY? Let’s dive in and find out!
📋 Ingredients
- 6 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes , peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper , diced (optional for added flavor)
- 1 small onion , chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops
- Season the pork chops generously with garlic powder , onion powder , paprika , salt , and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat . Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side , or until golden brown. The goal is to create a flavorful crust—don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this stage. Remove the pork chops and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and diced bell pepper (if using). Sauté for 3–4 minutes , or until tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute , stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will help thicken the gravy later.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
- Stir in the chicken broth , cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup , and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Whisk to combine and break up any lumps.
- Simmer the mixture for 2–3 minutes , allowing it to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Assemble in a Baking Dish
- In a large baking dish, arrange the potato chunks evenly across the bottom. Pour a small amount of the gravy over the potatoes to coat them.
- Place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes. Pour the remaining gravy over everything, ensuring the pork chops and potatoes are well-covered.
Step 6: Bake
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes .
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes , or until the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C ) and the potatoes are fork-tender. If desired, broil for the last 2–3 minutes to brown the tops slightly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with dried parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, one-pan meal!
Tips for Success
- Potato Prep: Cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Cream of Soup Swap: Use cream of celery or cream of onion soup for a different flavor profile.
- Thickening the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix an extra tablespoon of flour with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the gravy during the simmering step.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth to loosen the gravy.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy is a soul-satisfying dish that combines tender pork, creamy potatoes, and a rich, flavorful gravy—all in one pan. The optional bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and color, while the Worcestershire sauce deepens the flavor profile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Dive into this hearty, comforting dish and let it warm your heart and belly.
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
🍽 Servings:
6 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~400 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and ingredients)
