These creamy bacon pork chops are a delightful dish that combines the juicy flavor of pork with the crispy goodness of bacon. The creamy sauce brings it all together, making it a favorite!
Honestly, who can resist that bacon smell wafting through the kitchen? 😋 I love serving these chops with mashed potatoes to soak up all that yummy sauce. It’s a cozy dinner winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for flavor and moisture, but boneless works too. If you can’t find thick chops, just adjust cooking time to make sure they cook through without drying out.
Bacon: Use your favorite kind of bacon! Turkey bacon is a leaner option. If you want a smoky flavor, Canadian bacon is also a great substitute.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or a plant-based substitute like coconut cream, though the latter will alter the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender and Juicy?
To keep pork chops tender, follow these simple tips:
- Pat them dry before seasoning; this helps with browning.
- Don’t rush the searing process. Get a good golden crust by letting them cook undisturbed for the right amount of time.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure they are juicy but fully cooked without being dry.
How to Make Creamy Bacon Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bacon and Sauce:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, if needed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy bacon pork chops recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes for cooking. Overall, you can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits and set them aside, but keep the bacon fat in the skillet as it adds great flavor.
3. Searing the Pork Chops:
If your skillet looks a bit dry, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the seasoned pork chops. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.
4. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and add the minced garlic to the leftover bacon fat in the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but don’t burn it! Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well and scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
5. Adding Cheese and Seasoning:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
6. Finishing Touches:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, making sure to spoon some of the creamy sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and the flavors meld nicely.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, sprinkle the crispy bacon bits and chopped fresh parsley on top of the pork chops for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately, spooning extra creamy sauce over the chops!
Enjoy your tender pork chops with this luscious creamy bacon sauce alongside mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a hearty meal!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork loin chops or even pork tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Heavy Cream?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Bacon Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it over pasta to soak up the creamy sauce!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
