Description
A quick and comforting recipe for creamy garlic pork chops cooked in just 30 minutes. Tender boneless pork chops are seared to perfection and simmered in a flavorful creamy garlic sauce with spinach and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner that’s both rich and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pork Chops
- 4 pieces Boneless Pork Chops (select tender cuts like ribeye or loin)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (substitute with avocado oil if preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted preferred)
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Onion, chopped (yellow onion preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- Red Pepper Flakes, to taste
- 1 cup Chicken or Vegetable Stock (low-sodium preferred)
- ½ cup Half and Half (or Heavy Cream; coconut milk as dairy-free option)
- 2 cups Spinach Leaves (can substitute with kale or arugula)
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated (optional)
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnishing)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Pork Chops: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the boneless pork chops evenly with paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the chops for 3-5 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet, utilizing the cooking juices left behind. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until it becomes fragrant and the onion softens.
- Deglaze and Reduce: Pour in 1 cup of chicken or vegetable stock into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the stock to simmer and reduce slightly for 3-4 minutes, intensifying the flavors.
- Add Cream and Thicken Sauce: Stir in ½ cup of half and half and bring it to a gentle simmer. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Let the sauce thicken slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Greens and Cheese: Add 2 cups of spinach leaves to the sauce, stirring them in until they wilt, about 1-2 minutes. Then mix in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Return Pork Chops and Serve: Place the seared pork chops back into the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over them to coat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute half and half with coconut milk and omit Parmesan cheese.
- Use low-sodium stock to better control the salt content in the dish.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Allow the pork chops to rest a few minutes after searing to retain their juices.
- Optional: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
