why make this recipe
Smothered Pork Chops with Bacon, Mushrooms, and Fresh Thyme Cream Sauce is a delicious and hearty dish. The combination of flavors makes it a great choice for family dinners or special occasions. The bacon adds a smoky taste, while the mushrooms provide earthiness, and the thyme gives a fresh touch. The creamy sauce binds everything beautifully and makes each bite comforting.
how to make Smothered Pork Chops with Bacon, Mushrooms, and Fresh Thyme Cream Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 8 slices of bacon
- 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Crumble the bacon and set it aside.
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear the seasoned pork chops in the bacon grease until they are golden brown. Set them aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the sliced mushrooms until they are tender and browned. Set aside.
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and simmer it with the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
- Combine the cooked pork chops, crumbled bacon, mushrooms, and cream sauce in the skillet. Simmer everything together to heat through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
how to serve Smothered Pork Chops with Bacon, Mushrooms, and Fresh Thyme Cream Sauce
Serve the pork chops hot, smothered in the creamy sauce with bacon and mushrooms on top. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. A sprinkle of extra thyme or some chopped parsley can add a nice touch for presentation.
how to store Smothered Pork Chops with Bacon, Mushrooms, and Fresh Thyme Cream Sauce
If you have leftovers, cool the dish to room temperature and store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid splitting the cream sauce.
tips to make Smothered Pork Chops with Bacon, Mushrooms, and Fresh Thyme Cream Sauce
- Make sure to sear the pork chops well for extra flavor. The bacon grease adds richness, so don’t skip this step.
- Use fresh mushrooms for the best texture and taste. Button or cremini mushrooms work well.
- Adjust the amount of thyme based on your taste preference; it can be strong, so start with less and add more if desired.
variation
You can add garlic to the cream sauce for extra flavor. Another option is to replace the bacon with pancetta for a different take. If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, but the texture and richness will differ.
Can I freeze leftovers?
It is not recommended to freeze the dish due to the cream sauce, which may separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked pork chops without sauce and reheat them later.