Craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare? Look no further than this Creamy Baked Pork Chops recipe! These tender, juicy pork chops are baked to perfection in a rich and savory creamy sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking to impress your guests with a flavorful main dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to go in under an hour. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step to make the best creamy baked pork chops!
What Are Creamy Baked Pork Chops?
Creamy Baked Pork Chops are a delicious, oven-baked dish featuring juicy pork chops smothered in a rich and flavorful cream-based sauce. The pork chops are first seared for a golden-brown crust, then baked in a creamy mixture of broth, cream, and seasonings that turns into a luscious sauce as it cooks. This dish is all about comfort, offering tender meat and a smooth, savory sauce that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines simplicity with elegance, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients List for Creamy Baked Pork Chops
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Creamy Baked Pork Chops dish:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor and color)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds richness and depth)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
For even more flavor and texture, consider adding these ingredients to the dish:
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Spinach or kale: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
- Onions or shallots: Sautéed onions or shallots can add a sweet and savory depth to the sauce.
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences or dietary needs:
- Dairy-free: Use a plant-based cream or coconut milk in place of the heavy cream, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
- Gluten-free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check that your chicken broth and any additional ingredients (like cornstarch) are also gluten-free.
- Lighter version: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Herb alternatives: Swap out the thyme for rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get started on making this delicious Creamy Baked Pork Chops dish. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pork chops will cook evenly when transferred to the oven.
Step 2: Season the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). This will help the chops develop a nice crust when seared.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown. You’re not cooking them all the way through at this stage, just getting a nice crust. Once seared, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—those browned bits add flavor!), reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, and whisk it into the sauce during this step. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 1-2 minutes to thicken. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary.
Step 5: Bake the Pork Chops
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon some sauce over the tops of the pork chops to coat them. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). Thicker chops may take a little longer, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the pork chops are done, remove the skillet from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot, spooning the creamy sauce over the pork chops and your favorite sides.
How to Cook Creamy Baked Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Season and sear the pork chops: This step locks in flavor and creates a delicious crust on the chops.
- Make the creamy sauce: Using the same skillet, build a savory sauce from garlic, broth, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the pork chops: Transfer everything to the oven to finish cooking the pork chops to tender perfection.
- Serve and garnish: Finish with fresh parsley and extra cheese, and serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe like Creamy Baked Pork Chops, a few missteps can make a difference. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the pork chops: Pork can easily become dry if overcooked. Be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid this.
- Using too little seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasoning for the pork chops. The seasoning is key to enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so be sure to sauté it briefly (30 seconds to 1 minute) to avoid bitterness.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can elevate your dish from delicious to mouth-watering. Here are some tips for serving Creamy Baked Pork Chops:
- Serve over mashed potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, which will soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Try with rice or noodles: Serve the pork chops over steamed rice or egg noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Pair with vegetables: Roasted vegetables, sautéed green beans, or steamed broccoli make for a great side to balance the richness of the dish.
How to Serve Creamy Baked Pork Chops
Creamy Baked Pork Chops are a complete meal when served with a starch and a veggie. Place a pork chop on each plate, spoon some of the sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley. Don’t forget to spoon extra sauce over your mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles!
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Baked Pork Chops
Make your dish look extra inviting with these presentation ideas:
- Serve in the skillet: If you’re serving family-style, bring the skillet directly to the table for a rustic, comforting presentation.
- Use fresh herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a lemon wedge: A lemon wedge on the side can brighten up the rich, creamy flavors of the dish.
Creamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe Tips
- Let the pork chops rest: After baking, allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes to lock in their juices.
- Use bone-in pork chops for more flavor: Bone-in pork chops tend to have more flavor and stay juicier than boneless, but either will work well in this recipe.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, sear the pork chops, add the sauce, and bake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook faster, so start checking for doneness after 12-15 minutes in the oven.
Can I make this dish ahead
of time?
You can make the creamy sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to two days. When you're ready to cook, simply sear the pork chops, pour the prepared sauce over them, and bake.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
If your sauce is too runny, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and simmer the sauce for an extra minute or two until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I freeze leftover pork chops?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pork chops, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly when reheated. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Conclusion
That’s your ultimate guide to making Creamy Baked Pork Chops! This dish combines tender, juicy pork chops with a rich and flavorful cream sauce, making it the perfect choice for a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re looking to feed the family or prepare an impressive meal for guests, these pork chops are sure to please. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a comforting, flavor-packed dinner tonight!
PrintCreamy Baked Pork Chops Recipe
These Creamy Baked Pork Chops are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Smothered in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, this easy recipe turns simple pork chops into a delicious meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you're craving comforting, hearty food. Serve these baked pork chops with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: oven Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to a baking dish.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened.
- Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Pour the creamy mushroom sauce over the pork chops in the baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until pork chops are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make sure to rest the pork chops for a few minutes after baking to keep them juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
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