These creamy bacon pork chops are a cozy dish that gets dinner done quickly! With juicy pork chops, crispy bacon, and a rich cream sauce, it’s sure to please everyone.
I love how the bacon makes everything better! Pair it with some mashed potatoes or a simple salad to round out the meal. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for this recipe as they stay juicier during cooking. If bone-in isn’t available, boneless chops will work, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they cook faster.
Bacon: Everyone loves crispy bacon! If you want to cut down on fat, turkey bacon is a leaner substitute, but it might not have the same richness. You could also use pancetta for a different flavor vibe.
Heavy Cream: This adds the lovely creaminess we crave! If you need a lighter option, try half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. The sauce will be less thick but still tasty.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic are key for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, onion powder or garlic powder can add some taste. Just be careful not to overdo it!
Thyme: I love using fresh thyme here, but dried thyme works perfectly too. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or Italian seasoning can also add nice flavor.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the pork chops just right is important for a delicious meal. Here are some tips to ensure they are tender and juicy:
- Start with room-temperature pork chops for even cooking. Let them sit out for 30 minutes before you begin.
- Use a hot skillet! This helps sear the outside, locking in juices.
- A meat thermometer is your best friend! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking.
These simple tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked pork chops every time! Serve them with that creamy sauce, and you’re sure to impress. Enjoy! 🥰
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 pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
- Fresh parsley or thyme leaves, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner while still being impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Start by giving your pork chops a good sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides to add flavor. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb those seasonings.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy—this will only take 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, but leave the delicious bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor!
3. Searing the Pork Chops:
If necessary, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the skillet with the bacon fat. Increase the heat to medium-high and carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, letting them develop a lovely golden-brown crust. Once they’re nearly cooked through, set them aside on a plate.
4. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat back to medium and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
5. Adding the Cream:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the skillet. This helps lift all that delicious flavor stuck to the pan. Add in the Dijon mustard and thyme, mixing everything together well.
6. Bringing it All Together:
Return the seared pork chops back to the skillet, gently simmering for 5 minutes. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chops to let the flavors mingle. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly and the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Finishing Touches:
Finally, add the reserved crispy bacon back to the skillet, giving everything a gentle stir to combine. For a touch of color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves before serving.
These creamy bacon pork chops are outstanding with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp green salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they will cook faster, so keep an eye on the time and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even full-fat milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce. The texture will be a bit different, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream to refresh the sauce if necessary.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onion in the early steps to ensure they cook down well.
