Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy

Looking for a comforting, easy dinner? These Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy are juicy, flavorful, and oven-baked to perfection – the ultimate family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy is the kind of heartwarming dish that brings everyone to the table. Think tender, seared pork chops layered over soft, buttery potatoes, all smothered in a rich, savory gravy. It’s the comfort food you didn’t know you were craving—simple enough for a weekday dinner, but indulgent enough to feel like a weekend treat.

Tools You'll Need

To make this recipe come together smoothly, have the following tools ready:

·        Large oven-safe baking dish

·        Skillet or sauté pan

·        Mixing spoon or whisk

·        Aluminum foil

·        Knife and cutting board

·        Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops and Gravy:

·        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)

·        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 (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

·        2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

·        1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Season the Pork Chops:
Sprinkle pork chops with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Massage the spices in gently.

3. Sear for Flavor:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Set them aside—you’ll finish cooking them in the oven.

4. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Sauté until soft and fragrant. Sprinkle flour in and stir for 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth, soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk to combine and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Assemble the Dish:
Place the potato chunks in the bottom of a large baking dish. Spoon a little of the gravy over them. Lay the seared pork chops on top. Pour the rest of the gravy evenly over everything.

6. Bake Covered and Uncovered:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender and the top is beautifully golden.

7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle dried parsley over the top. Serve hot and enjoy every savory bite.

Tips for Success

·        Searing Is Key: Don’t skip the searing—it adds a delicious crust and locks in juices.

·        Balance the Salt: The soup and broth can be salty. Taste your gravy before adding more salt.

·        Potato Size Matters: Cut potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.

Variations and Add-Ons

·        Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar cheese on top before the final bake.

·        Add Veggies: Mix in carrots or mushrooms with the potatoes for extra heartiness.

·        Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Storage and Reheating

Storage:
Let the dish cool, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave in 1-minute bursts with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving – serves 6)

·        Calories: 420

·        Protein: 32g

·        Fat: 24g

·        Carbohydrates: 18g

·        Fiber: 2g

·        Sodium: 790mg

Prep and Cook Times

·        Preparation Time: 20 minutes

·        Cook Time: 1 hour

·        Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes! Boneless work perfectly—just be mindful of overcooking since they’re leaner.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble everything the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken or even a homemade roux-based sauce will work well.

Is it okay to skip the bell pepper?
Totally optional. It adds flavor and color, but the dish is delicious without it.

This Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a dish. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a hectic weekday, this recipe brings ease, flavor, and smiles to your table. Don’t wait—try it today and experience what real comfort food tastes like.