These creamy bacon pork chops are a real treat! Juicy pork chops are cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce loaded with crispy bacon bits. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist crispy bacon? I often serve these with mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce. It’s comfort food made easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for this recipe as they stay juicier while cooking. If unavailable, boneless chops will work too, but cook them for a shorter time to prevent drying out!
Bacon: Bacon adds amazing flavor! For a healthier choice, turkey bacon or pancetta can be used. I’ve tried pancetta, and it gives a different, but wonderful twist!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half. Just be aware the sauce might be less rich.
Chicken Broth: You can swap this with vegetable broth for a lighter taste, or even homemade broth for extra depth of flavor. I sometimes use homemade; it’s truly a game-changer!
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops to just the right doneness is key for juiciness. Here’s how to ensure it’s done perfectly:
- Always pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice sear!
- Let your skillet get hot before adding the pork. Searing creates a delicious crust!
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
- Let the cooked chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps them juicy as they finish cooking off the heat.
Creamy Bacon Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 20-25 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get that nice brown crust when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy, usually about 5-7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits and set them aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the unsalted butter to the skillet with the bacon fat and let it melt. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully golden-brown. Once done, remove the pork chops and set them aside.
4. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Turn the heat down to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook until the onions are softened and slightly translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard (if using), and smoked paprika. This is where the magic happens! Scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan—those are packed with flavor. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Finish Cooking the Chops:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes. Cook until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits and chopped fresh parsley or chives over the creamy pork chops for a fresh touch. Serve immediately, spooning extra sauce over each chop. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or your favorite steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your rich, creamy bacon pork chops! They are sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just as well, but be cautious with the cooking time as they can dry out quickly. Aim for about 3-4 minutes on each side, checking for that 145°F (63°C) internal temperature.
How Should I Store Leftover Creamy Bacon Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that using lower-fat options may result in a thinner sauce, so you might want to thicken it with a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pork chops ahead of time. Just cool them down before storing. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove and add a little cream to revive the sauce if needed!
