Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan with tender pork chops, creating a meal that's both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for loved ones or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to discover the secrets to making the perfect Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops, and be sure to follow each step closely for the best results.
What Are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops?
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are a savory dish where pork chops are cooked in a luscious garlic and Parmesan sauce. The dish is a perfect balance of flavors, with the garlic providing a pungent kick and the Parmesan cheese adding a rich, creamy texture. The pork chops are seasoned and seared to perfection, ensuring a juicy and tender bite every time. The sauce, made with chicken and beef broths, heavy cream, and a blend of herbs and spices, complements the pork beautifully, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Pork Chops
- 4 pork chops: Center cut pork chops are recommended for their tenderness and flavor. You can also use bone-in pork chops for extra juiciness.
- Salt/Pepper: For seasoning the pork chops. Adjust to taste.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to infuse the pork chops with Mediterranean flavors.
- ¼ cup flour: Used for dredging the pork chops, helping them achieve a nice crust during cooking.
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the pork chops to a golden brown.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce, adding depth and flavor.
- ¾ cup beef broth: Can be substituted with additional chicken broth if preferred, but beef broth adds a richer flavor.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides a tangy, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a hint of sharpness and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- ½ chicken bouillon cube: Concentrates the flavor of the sauce, making it more robust.
- ½ teaspoon EACH: onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley: A blend of spices that elevates the sauce with aromatic flavors.
Other Ingredients
- ¾ cup dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with more chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for that classic garlic flavor.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Used to cook the garlic and add richness to the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Provides the dish with its signature cheesy, savory flavor.
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, optional: Adds a touch of brightness and balances the richness of the dish.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops recipe is its flexibility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Pork Chop Cuts: If you don’t have center-cut pork chops, you can use bone-in pork chops, pork loin, or even thick pork steaks. Bone-in cuts will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
- Broth Choices: While the recipe calls for chicken and beef broths, you can use vegetable broth if you're looking for a lighter flavor. For a deeper taste, stick with beef broth, but using all chicken broth will work just as well.
- Cream Alternatives: If you want a lighter sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that this will result in a thinner sauce.
- Cheese Options: Parmesan is the star, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the pork chops and thickening the sauce.
- Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to cook with wine, increase the chicken broth by ¾ cup and add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
- Additional Herbs: Feel free to add or substitute with herbs like rosemary or thyme, depending on your preference.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops requires a few steps, but each one is simple and straightforward. Follow these instructions to achieve the best results:

Preparing the Pork Chops
- Season the Pork Chops: Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Dredge in Flour: Place the flour on a plate and dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess. This step helps create a nice crust on the pork chops when seared.
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Add the pork chops to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Making the Sauce
- Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
- Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. This will also help thicken the sauce.
- Incorporate the Broths: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and beef broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, chicken bouillon cube, and all the herbs and spices (onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley). Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
- Finish with Parmesan: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- Return the Pork Chops: Add the seared pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Let the chops simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Optional Lemon Juice: For a touch of brightness, stir in fresh lemon juice just before serving.
How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops is a process that combines searing, sauce-making, and simmering. Here’s a concise step-by-step guide:
- Sear the Pork Chops: Season, dredge in flour, and sear the pork chops in olive oil until golden brown.
- Prepare the Sauce: Sauté garlic in butter, deglaze with white wine, thicken with flour, and add broths, cream, and seasonings.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and simmer until fully cooked.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops, a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to avoid them:
- Overcooking the Pork Chops: Pork can become tough and dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to 145°F (63°C).
- Skipping the Flour Dredge: Dredging the pork chops in flour before searing helps create a crust that locks in moisture. Don’t skip this step!
- Not Deglazing the Pan: Deglazing the pan with wine or broth lifts the flavorful browned bits from the skillet, which are essential for a rich sauce.
- Rushing the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough to reduce and thicken. Rushing this step will result in a watery sauce.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a superior flavor. Avoid using pre-grated cheese for the best results.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve and present Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some tips:
- Serve with Sauce: Pour the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce generously over the pork chops when serving. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top of the pork chops for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Side Dishes: Serve the pork chops with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
Serving Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops is all about complementing the dish’s flavors. Here are some serving suggestions:
- With Starches: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- With Bread: A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for sopping up the remaining sauce on the plate.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
For a visually appealing presentation, consider the following:
- Layered Plating: Place the pork chop on a bed of mashed potatoes, spoon the sauce over, and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Rustic Style: Serve on a wooden board with roasted vegetables around the pork chop for a rustic, family-style presentation.
- Garnish with Lemon Slices: Add a few thin lemon slices to the plate for a bright contrast in color and flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops Recipe Tips
To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, freshly grated Parmesan, and high-quality pork chops make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Rest the Pork Chops: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
A: Yes, bone-in pork chops add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
Q: What can I use instead of white wine?
A: Substitute with more chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the pork chops and thickening the sauce.
Q: Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add a splash of broth or cream to thin it out if needed.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender, juicy pork chops and a rich, flavorful sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided, you’ll be able to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, and start cooking these amazing Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops today!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Pork Chops Recipe
Savor the taste of tender Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops, seasoned with Italian spices and cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. This quick and easy recipe uses pantry staples like chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and freshly grated Parmesan for a delicious weeknight meal. Perfect for family dinners, it's a simple yet satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Pork Chops: 4 center-cut pork chops
- Salt/Pepper: To taste
- Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
- Flour: ¼ cup (for dredging)
- Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons
- Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup
- Beef Broth: ¾ cup (or sub chicken broth)
- Heavy Cream: ¼ cup
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Honey: 1 teaspoon
- Chicken Bouillon Cube: ½ cube
- Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Oregano: ½ teaspoon
- Basil: ½ teaspoon
- Parsley: ½ teaspoon
- Other:
- Dry White Wine: ¾ cup
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Flour: 3 tablespoons
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated
- Lemon Juice: 2 teaspoons (optional)
Instructions
- Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dredge in flour.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops until golden brown on both sides. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook briefly.
- Deglaze the skillet with white wine, then add chicken broth, beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, bouillon cube, onion powder, oregano, basil, and parsley. Simmer until thickened.
- Return pork chops to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Simmer until pork chops are fully cooked.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice (if using) before serving.
Notes
- Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless center-cut chops work well.
- Flour: Use all-purpose flour for dredging.
- White Wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc is ideal, or substitute with extra broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with sauce
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
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