Smothered Pork Chops

Listen, don’t let these other recipes online play in your face. My mama’s Smothered Pork Chops recipe is the undisputed champ of them all! Her Mississippi roots run deep in her version that starts with lightly breaded pork chops that simmer in a savory roux based brown gravy with well seasoned flavor in each and every bite. You won’t turn back after you try her Southern smothered pork chops cooked the right way. This is Soul Food done right! I said what I said!

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Easy smothered pork chops in a skillet with a spoon against a white background with a pork chop on a white plate with rice

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Five star review

โ€œI mastered this recipe on the 1st try and it was divine. Doubled the recipe for a family dinner and they were begging for more. The gravy was so good and the chops were ever so tender. I will keep this one for the record books because it definitely hits out of the park. Thanks for sharing your family gems.โ€

โ€”BETH E.

One of my fave dishes growing up was my mama’s smothered pork chop recipe. Ain’t nothing like it y’all. She would serve it for Sunday Supper after church letting those breaded chops bubble away in that crazy delish onion gravy. I would add them to white rice and let that gravy soak into every grain. Now I’m giving you a chance to get at the best one you will find on the internet, in a restaurant or basically anywhere. Let’s get into it!

What are Smothered Pork Chops?

Smothered pork chops are about as classic Southern comfort as possible. Pork chops are either pan-fried Southern-style or seared before being cooked slowly in a thick flavorful brown gravy that coats the pork chops and makes them beyond tender.

Smothered pork chop recipe over white rice with a silver fork on white plate

The Lowdown on the Best Smothered Pork Chops Recipe

Cuisine Inspiration: Southern Comfort
Primary Cooking Method: Pan-Fried and Simmered
Dietary Info: Meat Lovers stay winning with this recipe (Sorry this ain’t for my Vegetarian boos but it can be made Gluten-Free with a few substitutions)
Key Flavor: Rich, Savory, and Melt-In-Your-Mouth Tender with Ample Flavor and a Hint of Spice
Skill Level: Intermediate

  • Flavor Building: Starting with a good ole seasoned flour coating before we pan-fry sets the stage for layers of flavor building.
  • One-Pot: We fry up those chops and create the gravy all in the same pan, saving you from bussing so many suds.
  • Budget-Friendly: We stay keeping the cost down by using simple ingredients that pop the flavors without spending too much loot.
  • Gravy Goodness: Our pork chops and gravy recipe starts with a classic roux that picks up all the delish browned bits, creating a toffee-colored gravy thatโ€™s silky and so bomb.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Southern Smothered Pork Chops

Pork chops on white plates with seasonings and liquids in clear and white bowls on white surface ready to enjoy
  • Vegetable Oil: This neutral oil is gonna give that pan-fry a nice golden brown finish
  • Pork Chops: Grab you some bone-in for additional flavor and juiciness boos
  • Seasoned Salt & Black Pepper: Season to taste and don’t be shy. Do you boos!
  • All-Purpose Flour: We use this for our seasoned coating and to create our roux base to thicken up the gravy to the perfect consistency.
  • Onion: They give us texture, depth of flavor and a bit of sweetness y’all.
  • Minced Garlic: If garlic ain’t in it, it ain’t poppin like it should. That aromatic kick improves everything.
  • Chicken Stock: This, along with water, helps create a flavorful saucy gravy.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This is my secret ingredient y’all. It gives savory pizazz to anything and everything you add it to.
  • Creole Seasoning: When you wanna make the best smothered pork chops, you gotta season em up right! The blend of spices adds such a unique Southern kick of flavor.
  • Hot Sauce: While this is optional, I love to add just a dash to get a tiny hint of fiery taste in the mix.

How to Make Smothered Pork Chops

Step 1: Season, Dredge, and Pan-Fry Those Chops

  1. Season up those chops with salt and pepper.
  2. Next, dredge the chops in flour, brown on both sides, then set aside.
  3. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Brown the chops in the skillet on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Then remove the pork chops and drain that oil on paper towels.

PRO TIP: Don’t overcrowd the pan. It will drop the heat. The pork chops won’t cook evenly resulting in them being soggy. Fry in batches or grab a bigger skillet.

A collage of pork chops being seasoned then added to flour before pan-frying and draining on paper towels

Step 2: Build That Flavor and Get The Roux Started

  1. Add in the onions and sautรฉ until they are browned.
  2. Toss in that garlic and let it go for about 30 seconds.
  3. Now let’s get going on the roux. Shift the garlic and onions to the side and add in the remaining oil so you can brown up that flour. We want to get a good toffee color. This can take about 5-8 minutes.
a collage of onions cooking with garlic in a skillet then flour and oil added to create a roux for gravy

Step 3: Gravy it Up!

  1. Now that the roux is done, stir in the chicken stock and water to get that gravy liquid going.
  2. Bring to a boil then add in the Worcestershire sauce, Creole seasoning, and hot sauce. Reduce heat, return the pork chops to the skillet then cover and simmer until tender and sauced up.
A collage of pork chops in gravy with brown gravy cooking down then chops being simmered yet

How to Serve Pork Chops and Gravy

Made this for dinner today, followed recipe exactly, this was delicious. Pork chops were tender and the gravy was amazing. Thank you for a great recipe that will be in our rotation.Terri Blackburn

A close up of smothered pork chops recipe in a pan with brown gravy

Recipe Substitutions

  • Pork Chops: We use bone-in here but you can grab boneless pork loin chops or even pork shoulder steaks.
  • Oil: Canola or another neutral oil works best in this recipe.
  • Stock: Broth is fine to use if you don’t have stock. You can also grab beef or vegetable flavored instead as well.
  • Onions: Shallots work great here boos. They will be a bit milder in flavor however.
  • Worcestershire: Soy sauce or Tamari are great subs in you are missing this.
  • Seasonings: You can omit the creole seasoning and use a combo of cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika to make your own blend or create a homemade cajun seasoning to sub in.

Recipe Variations and Additions

  • Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 ratio gluten-free flour for the breading and for the roux.
  • Add Mushrooms: Mushrooms add additional texture and flavor. Mix in some chopped mushrooms like portobello, cremini or even oyster mushrooms for more meaty flavor when you cook the onions and garlic.
  • Cream Up That Gravy: Just a splash of heavy cream will create a super rich, buttery and creamy sauce here.
  • Add some Herbs: Crust those chops up with a mix of herbs like rosemary, parsley and thyme for a fresh earthy twist.
  • Add Fruity Acid: Replacing some of the chicken stock with apple cider and a pinch of apple cider vinegar will really liven up the flavors giving you sweetness and a bit of tartness. Toss in some apple slices when fall hits for the perfect Autumn dish.
A close up of a Southern smothered pork chop on a white plate over white rice with a pan in the background

Expert Tips and Tricks

  • Grab the Right Chops: We use bone-in pork chops for this recipe because they tend to be more flavorful, juicy and less dry. Try getting center-cut for even more flavor.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure you don’t overcrowd your pan so all of your chops can cook evenly and not get soggy. You may have to fry in batches or use a larger pan for them all to fit.
  • Searing: Make sure you pan-fry those chops getting a nice golden flavor and crust so you can seal in the juiciness.
  • Simmer Until Tender: Don’t stop cooking those smothered pork chops until those chops are tender and cooked through. The sauce needs to thicken as well. If it doesn’t coat the back of a spoon, don’t stop the heat.
  • Don’t Overcook: Chops can get tough if you cook them too long. A safe internal temp of 160ยฐF (71ยฐC) is a good move.
  • Taste Before Serving: Make sure you taste your gravy and adjust until the spices and flavors meet your personal standards. That’s how all the home cooks in the South do it!

How to Store Smothered Pork Chops in Gravy

  1. Fridge: First let everything cool to room temp then add the smothered pork chops to an airtight container. Lay them flat then cover with the gravy so they maintain that moisture. It will last for 3-4 days.
  2. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the pork chops and gravy. Use a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They should be all good for about 2-3 months.
  3. Reheating: You can reheat the smothered pork chops in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. If reheating from frozen, itโ€™s best to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
A close up of a pork chop and gravy on a white plate cut open to see the inside

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use bone-in or boneless pork chops for these smothered pork chops?

Honestly do you boos! Whichever floats your boat is fine. I prefer bone-in because of the additional flavor and juiciness but boneless is much easier to eat so you can select your preference.

Do I need to bread the pork chops to make Southern smothered pork chops

As Southerners, that’s how we usually do it but you can season up your chops instead and just sear them in the oil and continue on with the recipe as written.

Can you bake this Smothered Pork Chop Recipe instead?

You can give it a try boos. You still gotta pan fry those chops and create your roux first then you can add it all to the oven for about 30 minutes on 350 F degrees OR until the gravy has thickened and the pork chops have tenderized.

How thick should my smothered pork chop gravy be?

We want it nice and thick boos. If it’s too watery, the flavor hasn’t developed and it won’t stick to those chops either. Continue to cook until its thick but still pourable.

More Smothered Recipes

Southern Smothered Pork Chops Recipe | Grandbaby Cakes

Smothered Pork Chops Recipe

This Southern Smothered Pork Chops Recipe is pure comfort food.ย  Lightly breaded pork chops are smothered in a rich savory and well seasoned brown gravy resulting in the perfect Southern classic.
4.35 from 133 votes
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course: Main Course
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 lb bone in pork chops patted dry with paper towels
  • Seasoned salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 6 tbsp vegetable oil separated
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour plus 1 tablespoon separated
  • 1 medium sized onion diced
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 3 cups chicken stock
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 tsp creole seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp hot sauce
  • Rice for serving

Instructions

  • Season your dried pork chops with salt and pepper to taste.ย ย Dredge pork chops lightly in ยฝ cup of flour then let the chops sit for about 15 minutes to set.
  • Heat 4 tablespoons of oil (or a little more if you have a super large pan) in large pan over medium heat. Pan-fry in skillet on both sides, about 2-3 minutes each side. Once browned, remove pork chops from skillet and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
  • Next scrape the bottom of the pan getting up all of the browned bits. Add the onion to the pan and sautรฉ for about 5 minutes until a bit browned and tender. Add minced garlic and sautรฉ for 30 seconds so they don't burn..ย ย 
  • Push onions and garlic to one side of the pan then add remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to skillet then sprinkle in remaining flour. Constantly stir allowing the flour to brown until it reaches a toffee color (about 5-8 minutes) then pour in chicken stock and a 1/2 cup of water and whisk together until smooth.ย ย 
  • Turn heat to high to bring the gravy to a boil and season with salt and pepper. Whisk in Worcestershire sauce, creole seasoning and hot sauce then turn heat down to medium.ย ย 
  • Add back in pork chops and put lid on pan for about 25-35 minutes or until sauce has thickened up (don't stop if it is still too thin of a gravy) and coats the back of the spoon and pork chops are nice and tender..ย 
  • Serve over rice and garnish with parsley if you desire.

Video

Notes

Make sure you really allow the gravy to thicken.ย  Take the time to let it simmer until it coats the back of a spoon.ย  It will also continue to thicken once the heat is turned off if it is resting.
  1. Let it Cool: First, allow the pork chops and gravy to cool to room temperature. This helps to maintain their texture and prevent condensation inside the storage container, which could make the gravy watery.
  2. Airtight Container: Transfer the pork chops and gravy into an airtight container. If possible, lay the pork chops flat and cover them with gravy to help retain their moisture and flavor.
  3. Refrigerate Promptly: Place the airtight container in the refrigerator. Smothered pork chops will last for 3-4 days when stored properly in the fridge.
  4. Freezing Option: For longer storage, you can freeze the pork chops and gravy. Use a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They should maintain their best quality for about 2-3 months.
  5. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy again, you can reheat the pork chops in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. If reheating from frozen, itโ€™s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

Calories: 492kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Cholesterol: 81mg | Sodium: 413mg | Potassium: 736mg | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 50IU | Vitamin C: 4.4mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 2.2mg
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Filed Under:  Dinner, Main Dishes, Pork, Southern Classics, Stovetop

Comments

  1. I don’t usually eat pork chops, but my hubs found this recipe and I thought I’d give it a try. So glad I did! I wonder if there would be a good low carb substitute for the flour? If not, I’ll still make it again. Thanks for sharing!

  2. Hi. I am new to your page. I used to make smothered chicken a lot. I grew up in the South, and my mother was one of those persons who was famous for Southern cooking.. I love to cook, and I love testing ideas from other cooks. I can’t wait to try your recipe. My dad has been craving this type of food lately. Mom has passed away, but I have inherited her crown.

    1. Oh Tony I’m so sorry to hear about your mother but I love that you are carrying on her legacy. It is so important. So happy to have you here.

  3. I love to cook but I’m not the greatest. My pork chops seem to come out a little dry, but tonight I’m trying your recipe . Wish me luck

  4. I saw this recipe on Facebook and thought, that looks like some killer comfort food. This what just what I needed! The flavors. Wow. Even better on day two. This was excellent. Thank you!

  5. Would you have a recipe for homemade creole seasonings? If not could you recommend a brand. Thanks
    Love your recipes!

  6. I love when I find โ€œTHEโ€ recipe. As in, after many attempts, I have found THE cornbread recipe, THE chocolate chip cookie recipe, etc. โ€“ these are my go toโ€™s. Well this is now THE pork chop recipe. Thanks!

  7. This recipe is AMAZING!! Definitely going in my weekly rounds for dinner. My only complaint about this recipe is is doesnโ€™t make nearly enough gravy!!! When I covered the chops for 30 minutes, most of the gravy disappeared. But I am doubling up on the flour next time. Thank you so much for the recipe!!!

    1. Hooray so glad! I would you enjoyed this. Maybe your burner was a little too high? I think you can definitely double up on the gravy and make it absolutely perfect for you and maybe turn down the heat as well.

    2. Update: I make this once a week lol SINFULLY DELICIOUS! Itโ€™s everyones favorite. I double the recipe every time. Never any leftovers. LOVE THIS! Thanks again for sharing

    3. Hooray that makes me so happy! Make sure to drop me a star rating. Would love to show others how delish it is.

  8. Amazing! My family loved this recipe. A keeper for sure. Served it with collard greens, mashed potatoes and asparagus.

4.35 from 133 votes (80 ratings without comment)

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