These creamy bacon pork chops are a tasty treat! Juicy pork chops cooked with crispy bacon and a rich, creamy sauce make for a meal that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, who can say no to bacon? I love serving these with mashed potatoes to soak up that yummy sauce. It’s comfort food at its best! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops work great, but bone-in pork chops can add more flavor. If you want a leaner option, try using chicken breasts instead of pork. Just adjust the cooking time since chicken cooks faster.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for its texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon can work, though the flavor will differ. You might also use pancetta if you want a touch of Italian flair.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce really creamy, but you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream, though it will add a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes more flavorful. You can swap it for Pecorino Romano, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Searing of Pork Chops?
Searing is key for flavor! Here’s how to get that beautiful golden-brown crust on your pork chops:
- Start with room-temperature pork chops. This way, they cook more evenly.
- Make sure your skillet is hot! Heat it on medium-high before adding the bacon or pork.
- Add a little fat, like bacon grease or olive oil, to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let the chops sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes. Flip only once to maintain the crust.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly seared pork chops every time!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if needed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep, seasoning, and cooking the bacon, followed by around 20 minutes to cook the pork chops and make the creamy sauce. A quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps to bring out their flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy. Once it’s nice and golden, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain. Keep that delicious bacon fat in the skillet—it’s full of flavor!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
If the skillet looks a little dry, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they turn a lovely golden-brown and are cooked through. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops and cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm.
4. Make the Garlic Sauce:
Lower the heat to low, and then add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds—just enough time for that lovely garlic smell to fill your kitchen!
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so it reduces slightly.
6. Add Cream and Flavor:
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Keep stirring as it cooks for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Feel free to taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops and crispy bacon to the skillet, spooning that luscious sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another minute or two, just to warm up and mix those fabulous flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a pop of color. Serve these creamy bacon pork chops immediately and enjoy them with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or rice!
This dish is all about indulgence and comfort—perfect for a cozy dinner! Enjoy every bite! 🥳
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add even more flavor. Just keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook, so use a meat thermometer to check for the ideal internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option, half-and-half can work well. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream is a good choice, but it will impart a slight coconut flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients. Just cook them before adding the cream to ensure they’re tender and flavorful!