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Comforting Smothered Southern Pork Chops Recipe with Easy Onion Gravy

smothered southern pork chops - featured image

Juicy bone-in pork chops slowly simmered in a rich, buttery caramelized onion gravy, delivering a warm, comforting Southern-style meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick (68 ounces each)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy roux)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk (dairy-free milk optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Lightly dredge each chop in 1/2 cup flour, shaking off excess.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 3 minutes). Add pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown but not cooked through. Remove chops and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. When melted, add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until deep golden and caramelized, about 15 minutes.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons flour over onions and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out raw flour taste and create roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup milk or buttermilk. Scrape browned bits from pan. Bring to gentle simmer, stirring often, until gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Nestle pork chops into the onion gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover loosely, and simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until pork chops reach internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flavors meld.
  7. Remove chops and let rest briefly. Stir gravy to smooth it out, then spoon over chops when serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Slow caramelization of onions is key for sweetness and flavor; do not rush. Use bone-in pork chops for juiciness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chops reach 145°F internal temperature. If gravy thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend. For dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, smothered pork chops, southern pork chops, onion gravy, comfort food, easy dinner, caramelized onions, weeknight meal