Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy – A Hearty Southern Classic
When you’re craving down-home comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies every craving, nothing hits the spot like Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy. This iconic Southern dish is a beautiful balance of tender pork chops, fluffy potatoes, and a rich, savory gravy that pulls it all together into a perfect one-pan masterpiece.
Whether you’re cooking for a Sunday dinner, a family gathering, or just want a comforting meal after a long day, this dish delivers every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
✅ One-pan meal for easy cleanup
✅ Budget-friendly ingredients
✅ Incredibly tender pork chops
✅ Flavorful homemade gravy
✅ Perfect comfort food for cold days or cozy nights
Ingredients for Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bone-in or boneless pork chops | 4 (about 1-inch thick) |
| Russet potatoes (peeled and sliced) | 4 large |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream (or milk) | ½ cup |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup (for dredging and thickening) |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh thyme or parsley | Optional (for garnish) |
How to Make Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy
Step 1: Season and Dredge the Pork Chops
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Lightly dredge in flour, shaking off the excess. This helps build a base for the gravy later.
Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork chops and sear until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove and set aside on a plate (they’ll finish cooking later in the gravy).
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed.
- Sauté the sliced onions for 4–5 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Gravy
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons flour over the onions and stir to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes, or until the gravy begins to thicken.
Step 5: Add Potatoes and Pork Chops
- Nestle the sliced potatoes evenly into the skillet, layering them under the gravy.
- Place the pork chops back into the pan, covering them with some of the onions and gravy.
- Cover with a lid and simmer on low heat for 35–45 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the potatoes are fork-soft.
📝 Alternatively, transfer everything to a 350°F oven and bake for the same amount of time covered with foil.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Taste and adjust seasoning (salt and pepper).
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot with cornbread, green beans, or collard greens for a full Southern feast.
Pro Tips for the Best Smothered Pork Chops
- Bone-in pork chops offer the most flavor and stay juicier.
- Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t rush the gravy — let it thicken naturally for rich, velvety texture.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
To Make Ahead:
- Assemble the dish completely, then refrigerate before baking. When ready, bake at 350°F for 40–50 minutes.
To Store Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
To Freeze:
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations You Can Try
- Add mushrooms to the onions for earthy depth.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of russets for a twist.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the gravy for heat.
- Try with cream of mushroom soup instead of homemade gravy for a shortcut version.
Perfect Pairings for Your Pork Chops
- Southern-style cornbread
- Green beans with bacon
- Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots
- Sweet tea or apple cider for a cozy Southern meal
The Final Word: A True Comfort Food Classic
Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy is the ultimate in comfort food — rustic, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re bringing family together at the dinner table or cooking for a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. From the tender pork to the creamy gravy and melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, every bite is a warm hug from the kitchen.
So go ahead, save this recipe, and treat yourself to a plate of Southern hospitality done right.