There’s nothing quite like a comforting dinner that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a delightful occasion. Picture this: the tantalizing aroma of garlic sizzling in a pan, combined with the rich notes of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy Parmesan, wafting through your kitchen. That’s exactly what you can expect when you make my Garlic Marry Me Pork Chops.
This recipe is a true gem for anyone wanting to impress without the stress. Within 40 minutes, you’ll serve tender, juicy pork chops drenched in a smooth, flavorful sauce that tastes like you’ve been laboring in the kitchen for hours. Perfect for family dinners or unexpected guests, these pork chops boast an elegance that belies their simplicity.
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll find yourself wanting to make this dish a regular part of your dinner rotation. Dive into this culinary adventure and prepare to fall in love—all over again!
Why You’ll Adore Marry Me Pork Chops
Easy Preparation: This recipe is designed for busy home cooks. The steps are straightforward, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Incredible Flavor: The combination of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich sauce that elevates the humble pork chop into something special.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Whether for an intimate family dinner or entertaining guests, these chops impress everyone at the table.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them over creamy mashed potatoes or with a side salad for a complete meal. You can even mix things up by trying them with options like Savory Pomegranate Chops.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 40 minutes, making them the perfect solution to the evening dinner rush without sacrificing quality or taste.
Marry Me Pork Chops Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these delicious Marry Me Pork Chops!
For the Pork Chops
• Pork Chops – Choose 1-inch thick for juicy and tender results.
• Salt – Essential for drawing out flavor; don’t skip it!
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth and enhances the seasoning.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses a savory depth without the chopping hassle.
• Onion Powder – Elevates overall flavor complexity.
• Flour (All-Purpose) – Dredging helps create a crispy crust and thicken the sauce.
For the Cooking Base
• Butter – Use for richness and flavor when searing the chops; unsalted is ideal for control.
• Olive Oil – Higher smoke point, prevents the butter from burning during cooking.
For the Sauce
• Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced gives an authentic, sharp flavor in the creamy sauce.
• Italian Seasoning – Adds a lovely blend of herbs for a cozy flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for a touch of heat to balance the creaminess.
• White Wine (Dry) – A Pinot Grigio works best to deglaze and add depth.
• Chicken Stock (Low Sodium) – Forms the flavorful base for the sauce, keeping it rich.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious and creamy consistency in the sauce—a must for indulgence!
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Bring sweet-tart notes perfect for complimenting the cream.
• Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated) – Enhances the umami and creamy richness; use fresh for optimal flavor.
• Fresh Basil – For a burst of freshness and vibrant color to garnish your dish.
Get ready to impress with this delightful twist on classic comfort food!
How to Make Marry Me Pork Chops
- Prep Seasoning: In a small bowl, blend garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mix will enhance each bite of your delicious pork chops.
- Prepare Ingredients: Mince the garlic, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and grate the Parmesan cheese. Roughly chop the fresh basil to add as a vibrant garnish later.
- Dry & Season Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Coat them generously in your seasoning blend, then dredge each chop in flour, shaking off any excess for an even crust.
- Sear Chops: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter with olive oil. Sear the seasoned pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden crust. Transfer them to a plate once done.
- Make Sauce: Lower the heat, adding minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the same pan. Cook briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then stir in the reserved flour to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Deglaze: Pour in the dry white wine and chicken stock. Stir thoroughly to lift any browned bits off the pan, then simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and grated Parmesan. Continue mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens beautifully.
- Combine & Cook: Return the seared pork chops to the pan, letting them simmer in the sauce for 5-6 minutes. The pork should be cooked through, pale pink without any gray.
- Serve: Plate the chops with a generous spoonful of creamy sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with chopped basil before serving warm and enjoy a memorable meal.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Pork Chops
- Perfect Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure pork reaches 140°F before resting; it should finish cooking at 145°F for safe eating.
- Flour Dredging: Be sure each chop is evenly dredged in flour to avoid unwanted clumps in your creamy sauce. This makes a smoother finish!
- Wine Reduction: Allow the wine to reduce by half during deglazing; this step is crucial for achieving the right sauce thickness and flavor balance.
- Gentle Heat: Always keep the sauce mixture on medium heat to prevent breaking the cream, resulting in a rich and silky texture for your Marry Me Pork Chops.
- Add Freshness: Consider throwing in some freshly chopped greens like spinach or arugula into the sauce for added nutrition and color!
What to Serve with Marry Me Pork Chops?
Elevate your dinner experience by pairing these delicious chops with the perfect sides that complement their rich flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes provide a comforting base that soaks up the luxurious sauce beautifully.
- Garlic Butter Green Beans: Adding a fresh crunch, these vibrant green beans contrast with the richness of the pork, making for a balanced meal.
- Buttered Egg Noodles: Tender and slippery noodles are excellent at capturing the creamy sauce, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.
- Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavors and slight crispness from roasted asparagus pair well with the savory notes of the pork dish.
- Side Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A light salad with fresh greens adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chops.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, a freshly baked loaf will enhance the meal’s heartiness and warmth.
Each of these pairings not only complements the Marry Me Pork Chops but also creates a harmonious dining experience that leaves everyone wanting more.
Marry Me Pork Chops Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine and customize these delicious pork chops to suit your taste!
- Bone-In Chops: Use bone-in pork chops for a richer flavor that adds depth to your dish. The bone enhances juiciness while cooking.
- Chicken Alternative: Swap pork for chicken breasts or thighs for a lighter meal that still packs a punch in flavor.
- Cream Alternatives: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option, adding a subtle sweetness.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the sauce to amp up nutrition while adding delightful texture and earthiness.
- Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile that gives an herbaceous kick.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce for those who like to spice things up!
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds into the sauce for a delightful crunch that contrasts the creaminess.
- Citrus Zing: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice at the end for a refreshing brightness that balances the rich creaminess beautifully.
Storage Tips for Marry Me Pork Chops
Fridge: Store any leftover Marry Me Pork Chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to preserve moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork chops in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Wrap well to prevent freezer burn; consider separating them with parchment paper.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream to bring back creaminess.
Avoid Overcrowding: When storing or reheating, avoid overcrowding the container or pan to ensure even heating and retain the delicious flavor of your Marry Me Pork Chops.
Marry Me Pork Chops Recipe FAQs
What type of pork chops should I use for the best results?
I recommend using 1-inch thick pork chops for optimum juiciness. Bone-in chops can provide even more flavor, while boneless options work well for quick meals.
How should I store any leftovers?
Store any leftover Marry Me Pork Chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they have cooled completely before sealing to retain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze Marry Me Pork Chops?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pork chops in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To do this effectively, wrap each chop tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn, and consider separating them with parchment paper.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of chicken stock or heavy cream, stirring it in gradually until you reach the desired consistency. This will help lighten it up while enhancing the creamy flavor.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. If you’re concerned about gluten, use cornstarch instead of flour for dredging the pork chops and thickening the sauce.
How can I ensure my pork chops are perfectly cooked?
For perfectly cooked pork chops, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Remove the chops from the heat when they reach 140°F; they will continue cooking to the safe temperature of 145°F while resting. This prevents overcooking and dryness.
Irresistibly Juicy Marry Me Pork Chops That'll Steal Hearts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, blend garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mince the garlic, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and grate the Parmesan cheese. Roughly chop the fresh basil.
- Pat the pork chops dry, coat them evenly in the seasoning blend, and dredge in flour.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter with olive oil and sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Lower the heat and add minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the pan. Cook for 30 seconds, then stir in reserved flour to thicken the sauce.
- Pour in white wine and chicken stock, stirring to deglaze the pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan, continuing to mix until thickened.
- Return the pork chops to the pan and let simmer for 5-6 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve with sauce drizzled over the top and garnish with chopped basil.
Nutrition
Notes
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