Introduction
Take a culinary journey to the heart of French cuisine without leaving your kitchen. French Onion Smothered Pork Chops is a delectable dish that infuses the tender succulence of pork chops with the savory depths of caramelized onions and melted cheese. Enveloped in a rich onion gravy, this recipe transforms ordinary pork chops into a gourmet experience that’ll have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Prep Time: 25 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Directions
- Season the pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the pork chops and cook until they’re golden brown on each side, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary, then toss in the sliced onions. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally until the onions are caramelized and golden brown. This can take around 15-20 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth, using a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the onions. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, letting the pork chops soak in the flavors.
- If you’re using heavy cream for a richer sauce, stir it in now.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese over the pork chops and place a lid on the skillet, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves just before serving.
Notes
- For a more traditional French Onion taste, consider using a splash of white wine to deglaze the skillet instead of (or in addition to) the beef broth.
- Bone-in pork chops can also be used for this recipe, but cooking times may vary.