This creamy bacon pork chop dish brings together juicy pork chops and crispy bacon in a rich sauce. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how the bacon adds a tasty crunch! Plus, the creamy sauce just hugs the pork so well. You’ll want to make this one again and again—trust me on this! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and tenderness. If you don’t have them, boneless chops are a fine substitute. Just be mindful that they might cook a bit faster, so check for doneness early!
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious crunch and smoky flavor. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works quite well, or you can swap it with pancetta for a touch of Italian flair!
Cream: Heavy cream creates the luscious sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or even coconut milk can work, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient can enhance the sauce’s flavor. If you don’t have it, skip it or use a bit of whole grain mustard for texture.
How Do I Get Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry pork chops by patting them with paper towels. This helps them brown better.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding oil. You want the oil hot but not smoking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. This keeps the temperature high for a good sear.
- Sear each chop for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for around 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
Following these tips will help you achieve delicious, tender pork chops every time!
Creamy Bacon Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but delicious enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides of the chops generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper for amazing flavor.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, placing it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet—this is where all that delicious flavor comes from!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Add the olive oil or butter to the skillet with the remaining bacon fat, heating it over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a plate for later.
4. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Cook until it’s softened and translucent (about 3-4 minutes), then add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell the garlic’s aroma—this is when the fun starts!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon—this adds amazing flavor to your sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Add Cream and Seasoning:
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), thyme, and the crispy bacon pieces. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens up a bit. Yum!
7. Cook the Pork Chops:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of that luscious sauce over the top. Cover and cook on low heat until the pork chops are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which should take around 5-7 minutes.
8. Final Touches:
Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you think it needs it. You want it to be just right!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy bacon pork chops with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve them with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and steamed Brussels sprouts. Enjoy your comforting dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Bacon Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster—aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that these alternatives can alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy bacon pork chops! Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and they will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
