These creamy bacon pork chops are perfect for a quick dinner! With juicy pork chops cooked in a rich, yummy sauce, they’re ready in just 30 minutes!
Who doesn’t love bacon? I mean, it’s like a hug on a plate! I like to serve these chops with some mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are great for quick cooking, but bone-in chops can add more flavor. If you want a leaner option, use chicken breasts instead, adjusting cooking times as needed.
Bacon: Bacon adds richness, but turkey bacon is a healthier substitute. You can also skip the bacon and use pancetta or diced ham to keep that delicious flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Coconut cream can be an alternative for dairy-free diets, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Chicken Broth: Homemade or store-bought chicken broth works well, but vegetable broth is a perfect substitute for a vegetarian option.
Brussels Sprouts: If Brussels sprouts aren’t your thing, green beans or steamed broccoli could be tasty alternatives. Just cook them until tender!
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Keeping pork chops juicy is all about cooking them right. Here are a few tips to help you succeed:
- Don’t Overcook: Pork chops are best at an internal temp of 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Use Bacon Fat: Searing the chops in the bacon fat adds flavor and prevents them from drying out.
- Let Rest: After cooking, let the pork rest for a few minutes before serving. It helps keep the juices inside when you cut into them.
Following these simple tips will ensure your pork chops are tender, juicy, and full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Pork Chops in 30 Minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and only 20 minutes to cook! In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a full meal ready to enjoy. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Season both sides well with salt and pepper. This helps to enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
2. Cook Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the bacon is crispy. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain excess fat. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor!
3. Sear Pork Chops:
In the same skillet with leftover bacon grease, add olive oil if needed. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the pork chops. Sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Make Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika (if using), and half of the cooked bacon. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Finish Sauce and Pork:
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Let everything cook together for an additional 2 minutes. Stir in chopped parsley, which adds a lovely fresh flavor!
6. Prepare Brussels Sprouts:
While the pork cooks, steam or boil the Brussels sprouts until tender, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, toss them with a bit of butter or olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate! Place the pork chops on a plate, drizzle the creamy bacon sauce over them, and add a serving of mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts on the side. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining crispy bacon and parsley on top for a beautiful garnish.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in immediately! This creamy, savory meal is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy your delicious creamy bacon pork chops in just 30 minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add more flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream, although it will change the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat for even warming, or use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the sauce!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Bacon?
Yes, you can! While bacon adds great flavor, you could skip it and use olive oil or butter for sautéing instead. You could also use pancetta or diced ham if you want a similar taste without using standard bacon.
