These easy pork chops are juicy and topped with a creamy peppercorn sauce that packs a flavorful punch. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
I love how this dish turns simple pork chops into something special. The sauce is so creamy and tasty, you might want to lick the plate clean! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they can cook faster. You can also use chicken breasts or thighs for a lighter option.
Shallots: They give a milder flavor compared to onions. If you’re out of shallots, a small onion works well, or even a sprinkle of onion powder if you want to skip the chopping!
Cream: Heavy cream is best for a rich sauce, but you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream.
Peppercorns: Green and black peppercorns add a nice kick. If you only have one type, feel free to use that. You can also grind them for a finer texture, or skip them if you’re sensitive to spice.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops gives them a delicious crust while keeping them juicy inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the pork chops are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Pat them dry well with paper towels—this helps achieve that nice browning.
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high and let the oil shimmer before adding the chops; this prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is small, cook in batches to maintain the heat.
Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them tender!
Easy Pork Chops With Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, finely chopped (or 1 small onion)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brandy or cognac (optional; can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon green or black whole peppercorns, crushed
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal comes together in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking the pork chops and sauce. In no time at all, you’ll have a flavorful dinner on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This helps enhance the flavor of the meat!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the pork chops to the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Once done, remove the chops and set them aside on a plate to rest.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the chopped shallot and minced garlic and sauté them for about 2 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Carefully pour in the brandy or cognac to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it cook for roughly 1 minute to simmer down a bit. If you don’t want to use alcohol, you can skip this step and use chicken broth instead.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, stir in the crushed peppercorns and Dijon mustard (if using) before pouring in the heavy cream. Give it a good stir to blend everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops back to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until the pork chops are fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened nicely.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. We want it just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm pork chops on a plate, drizzled with the creamy peppercorn sauce. If you like, you can garnish them with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal alongside mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a complete dinner!
Happy cooking, and relish every bite of your juicy pork chops!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just be mindful that they tend to cook faster, so check for doneness a bit earlier than the suggested cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to keep the pork chops moist. You can also add a splash of cream or broth to the sauce if it thickens too much.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work in place of heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, you might try coconut cream or a plant-based cream. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Alcohol?
Certainly! If you’d prefer not to use alcohol, simply skip the brandy or cognac and substitute it with chicken broth. This will still give you a deliciously rich flavor without the alcohol content.
