If you're on the hunt for a dish that combines comfort with a touch of gourmet flair, look no further than these Creamy Basil Skillet Pork Chops! In just 30 minutes, you can transform simple pork chops into a mouthwatering meal that’s bursting with flavor. Imagine tender, juicy pork chops enveloped in a luscious cream sauce infused with fresh basil and garlic—it's a dish that promises to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is just about to smoke.
- Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tenting loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, sautéing for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits, which will add depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Add heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
- Cook the cream sauce for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Stir in chopped fresh basil and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the creamy basil sauce over them to reheat and coat thoroughly.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: For the best results, opt for bone-in pork chops, which tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless cuts.
- Searing Perfection: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the pork chops. This will help achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the cream sauce to simmer gently. This helps to thicken it and develop a rich flavor without scorching.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant taste that fresh basil brings to the dish.
- Add a Twist: For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic for added depth and complexity.
- Serve with Sides: Pair these pork chops with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to soak up the creamy sauce and create a complete meal.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store the pork chops and sauce separately to maintain their texture. Reheat gently to enjoy a delicious meal again!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 130mg
