These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are tender, juicy, and smothered in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Made in one skillet in under 40 minutes, this comforting dinner pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

⏱️ Recipe Information

🛒 Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Extra grated Parmesan
• Fresh thyme (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with:

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the pork chops for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Remove the pork chops and set aside. They do not need to be fully cooked yet.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium.
2. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in the same skillet.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1 minute.
5. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
7. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

1. Return the pork chops to the skillet.
2. Spoon the sauce over the chops.
3. Cover and simmer on low for 6–8 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Let the pork rest in the sauce for 3 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

💡 Tips for Success

• Use pork chops that are about 1 inch thick to help keep them juicy.
• Let the pork chops come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cream and cheese to prevent separation.
• Let the pork rest before serving to keep it tender.

🌿 Variations

Mushroom Garlic Pork Chops

Add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms after cooking the garlic and sauté until browned.

Spinach Parmesan

Stir 2 cups fresh spinach into the sauce until wilted.

Bacon Parmesan

Crumble 4 slices of cooked bacon over the finished dish.

Keto Version

Replace the flour with 1 teaspoon xanthan gum or simply reduce the sauce without flour.

Cajun Style

Replace the Italian seasoning with Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Garlic Parmesan pasta
• Steamed broccoli
• Roasted asparagus
• Green beans
• Rice pilaf
• Cauliflower mash
• Crusty bread

🥡 Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. The cream sauce may separate slightly after thawing; whisk gently while reheating to restore its texture.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring the sauce between intervals.
• Oven: Cover and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15–20 minutes.

🥣 Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.

🧀 Weight Watchers (Estimated)

Estimated points will vary depending on the cut of pork and dairy products used.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Yes. Bone-in pork chops are flavorful and juicy. They may require 2–3 extra minutes of cooking time, depending on thickness.

How do I know when the pork chops are done?

Use a meat thermometer. Pork is safely cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest.

Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. If needed, simmer it a little longer to thicken.

Why are my pork chops dry?

Overcooking is the most common cause. Sear the chops until browned, then gently finish them in the sauce and remove them as soon as they reach the proper internal temperature.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the pork chops and sauce up to 2 days in advance, refrigerate, and reheat gently over low heat before serving.