Best Old-Fashioned Pork Chop Recipe of All Time

The essence of a perfect dinner often lies in the simplicity and tradition of the recipe chosen. An all-time favorite, the old-fashioned pork chop recipe, brings comfort to the table with its rich flavors and straightforward preparation. This post will explore the detailed steps and variations of this classic dish, providing insights to achieve the best possible results from your pork chops.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 Bone-in Pork Chops (for extra flavor)
• 1 cup of Flour
• 1 teaspoon of Salt
• 1 teaspoon of Black Pepper
• 1 teaspoon of Paprika
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon of Garlic Powder
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon of Cayenne Pepper (optional for heat)
• ¹⁄₄ cup of Butter
• 2 tablespoons of Olive Oil
• 2 cups of Milk
• Chopped Parsley (for garnish)

Steps

Preparation

1. Mix the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish.
2. Prepare the pork chops by trimming any excess fat and patting them dry with a paper towel.
3. Coat each chop in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-covered but shake off any excess.

Cooking

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. When the butter has melted and started to foam, add the pork chops to the skillet.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they achieve a rich, golden-brown color and are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F).
4. Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest.

Making Gravy

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low. If needed, add more butter to the skillet.
2. Stir in any remaining flour mixture into the skillet drippings to make a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Variations

There are numerous ways to elevate or alter this traditional recipe:

• Herb-Crusted Pork Chops: Before frying, mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour mix for a fragrant crust.
• Breaded Pork Chops: Replace the flour coating with breadcrumbs for a different texture.
• Pork Chops with Apples: Serve with sautéed apples in butter, cinnamon, and sugar for a sweet counterbalance to the savory chops.
• Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet before making the gravy for an earthy twist.
• Spicy Pork Chops: Increase the cayenne pepper or add crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.

🍲 Note: Adjust the thickness of your gravy by adding more or less milk. Remember, it will thicken as it cools slightly.

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of pork chops allows for various accompaniments:

• Mashed or roasted potatoes to soak up the gravy.
• A light, refreshing salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or asparagus.
• Buttered noodles or creamy risotto for a heartier meal.

After presenting this traditional recipe with variations, we hope you're inspired to make your own version. The key to perfect pork chops lies in the simplicity of seasoning, the care in cooking, and the personalization of the dish with your favorite flavors or sides. The rich gravy complements the pork chops beautifully, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table.

What’s the best cut of pork for this recipe?

+

Center-cut, bone-in pork chops are recommended for this recipe as they cook evenly and provide extra flavor from the bone.

How thick should the pork chops be?

+

Aim for pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick to ensure they do not overcook too quickly on the outside while staying tender inside.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

+

Yes, you can bread the pork chops in advance. However, cook them just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.