bone-in pork chops

🥩🔥 Pan-Seared Bone-In Pork Chops (with Optional Gravy)

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

• 2–4 bone-in pork chops, 1 to 1½ inches thick

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Optional: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs

🔪 Instructions

1️⃣ Bring to Room Temp & Season

• Remove pork chops from the fridge 20–30 minutes before cooking.

• Pat dry and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder on both sides.

2️⃣ Sear the Chops

• Heat oil or butter in a cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add pork chops and sear 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temp reaches 140–145°F (60–63°C).

• Add fresh herbs during the last minute and baste with pan juices for extra flavor.

3️⃣ Rest

• Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes before serving. This keeps them juicy!

🥣 Optional Gravy (Pan Sauce)

After removing the chops:

1. Lower heat to medium.

2. Add 1 tbsp flour to the pan and stir into the fat to make a roux.

3. Slowly whisk in ¾ to 1 cup chicken broth, scraping up brown bits.

4. Add ¼ cup cream or a splash of milk if desired.

5. Simmer until thickened. Season to taste.

Pour over chops and serve.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or cheesy grits

• Sautéed green beans, cabbage, or asparagus

• Applesauce or caramelized apples for a sweet touch

🔄 Variations

• Baked: After searing, finish in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

• Smothered: Cook onions and mushrooms in the pan, then simmer the chops in a creamy gravy.

• Grilled: Marinate chops in olive oil, garlic, and herbs; grill 4–5 min per side.

Would you like a smothered Southern-style version, a slow cooker recipe, or a barbecue rub + grilling guide?