Smothered Pork Chops with Potatoes in Gravy

There’s something comforting about a plate of smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy. This classic recipe brings together tender pork chops, hearty potatoes, and a flavorful homemade gravy.

The juicy meat and creamy gravy soak into the potatoes, creating a cozy, satisfying meal. Many families turn to smothered pork chops when they want a simple meal full of Southern-style flavor.

The recipe is flexible—use bone-in or boneless chops, russet or Yukon potatoes, and adjust the gravy to your taste. Cooking everything in one pan saves time and makes cleanup easy.

If you want a dinner that satisfies and gets your family running to the table, try smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy. For simple steps and smart variations, check out this easy-to-follow guide.

Why You Will Love Smothered Pork Chops With Potatoes In Gravy

Smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy are a classic comfort food enjoyed by many families. The magic comes from cooking pork chops slowly with potatoes in savory, flavorful gravy.

This dish brings everyone to the table. The warm aroma fills the kitchen and makes it hard to resist.

Prep is simple and uses basic ingredients found in most kitchens. Even beginner cooks can get great results with little effort.

Here are a few reasons why this dish is a favorite:

Feature	Benefit
Tender Meat	Pork chops stay juicy and soft
Flavorful Gravy	Rich gravy makes every bite tasty
One-Pan Meal	Fewer dishes to wash

Potatoes soak up the creamy gravy, adding extra texture and flavor. Each forkful is hearty and satisfying.

You can customize the dish by adding vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or green beans. Cook it on the stove, bake it in the oven, or use a slow cooker for flexibility.

Families appreciate that it fits both a regular dinner or a special occasion.

How To Make Smothered Pork Chops With Potatoes In Gravy

A delicious meal like smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy is all about strong flavors and easy steps. With the right ingredients and tools, anyone can make this home-style comfort food.

Ingredients

Smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients.

• Pork chops: 4 to 6 chops; either boneless or bone-in, about 1-inch thick.
• Potatoes: 4 medium, peeled and cut into chunks.
• Onion: 1 small, chopped.
• Minced garlic: 2 teaspoons, or more to taste.
• Bell pepper: 1 green, diced (optional).
• Chicken broth: 2 cups.
• Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz).
• Olive oil or butter: 3 tablespoons.
• Flour: 2 tablespoons (optional, thickens gravy).
• Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional).
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder.
• Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon, for garnish.

These ingredients create a rich, savory dish. For more flavor tips, visit this step-by-step guide for smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy.

Instruments

Having the right tools makes the process smoother and faster.

• Large skillet or frying pan: For searing pork chops.
• Oven-safe baking dish: Big enough for all pork chops and potatoes.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables and pork.
• Mixing bowl: To mix the gravy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise amounts.
• Spatula or tongs: To flip pork chops.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking.
• Oven mitts: For handling hot dishes.

Organize these tools ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience.

Step By Step Instruction

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat pork chops dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then set aside.

Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft.

Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce.

Stir and simmer for a few minutes to make the gravy. Place potato chunks in the bottom of a baking dish and pour a small amount of gravy over them.

Lay seared pork chops on top of the potatoes. Pour the rest of the gravy over everything.

Cover the dish with foil. Bake for 45 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the pork chops are cooked through. Garnish with dried parsley and serve hot.

For another helpful recipe walk-through, check out this smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy recipe.

Tips & Tricks

Let the pork chops rest before serving to keep them juicy. Resting helps the juices settle.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Pull the chops off the heat as soon as they reach this temperature.

Brown the pork chops well on each side for extra flavor. This step gives the dish its savory taste.

Add potatoes cut-side down in the skillet to get a golden crust before stewing with the gravy. This adds texture to the creamy potatoes.

For a smooth gravy, sprinkle flour evenly and stir well before slowly adding broth. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps.

Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for deeper flavor. A dash of paprika or garlic powder brings more warmth.

Quick Table: Common Issues & Simple Fixes

Problem	Fix
Dry pork chops	Lower heat, add a splash of broth, cover to steam
Thin gravy	Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water, stir in
Potatoes undercooked	Cut smaller or simmer a bit longer

If making this dish ahead, store leftovers and reheat with a little extra broth so the sauce stays creamy.

Ingredient Substitute

You can swap some ingredients in smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy to fit your pantry or dietary needs.

Common Swaps:

• Replace garlic powder with fresh minced garlic or garlic salt (reduce extra salt).
• Use finely chopped onions or shallots instead of onion powder.
• Swap paprika with chili powder for more heat or leave it out for a milder gravy.

Liquid Bases:

• Use beef broth, vegetable broth, or water with a bouillon cube instead of chicken broth.
• Cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom, or cream of celery soup all work well.

Vegetables & Garnishes:

• Use red or yellow bell peppers if you don’t have green, or skip them.
• Replace dried parsley with fresh parsley, chives, or dill.

Extra Flavor Options:

Original	Substitution Option
Worcestershire Sauce	Soy sauce, A1 sauce, or balsamic
Cream of Chicken Soup	Cream of mushroom/celery soup
Garlic Powder	Fresh garlic or garlic salt
Onion Powder	Fresh or sautéed onion

Adjust the spices and bases to your taste. For more tips, check this detailed pork chops recipe.

What To Serve With Smothered Pork Chops With Potatoes In Gravy

A classic side for smothered pork chops and potatoes is creamy coleslaw. The cool, crunchy cabbage balances the rich gravy and soft potatoes.

Fresh green beans, especially cooked Southern style with bacon, add a salty, crisp bite. These beans contrast nicely with the soft pork and potatoes.

Cornbread is another favorite. A slice or muffin soaks up extra gravy and completes the meal.

Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli add color and texture. For more ideas, see this side dish guide for pork chops.

A simple salad, like Caesar or garden salad, brings a fresh crunch and a bit of acidity. This helps cut through the deep flavors of the dish.

For something extra, try macaroni and cheese or candied yams. These sides add creamy or sweet flavors and are popular in Southern kitchens.

Here’s a quick table of suggestions:

Side Dish	Why It Works
Creamy Coleslaw	Crunchy, fresh contrast
Green Beans	Saltiness and crisp bite
Cornbread	Perfect for soaking up gravy
Roasted Vegetables	Added texture and color
Salad	Bright, fresh flavor
Macaroni and Cheese	Extra richness and comfort
Candied Yams	Sweet balance for savory pork

How To Store Smothered Pork Chops With Potatoes In Gravy

Let smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container to keep the flavors locked in.

Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking. They stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, freeze the pork chops in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Here’s a quick table for reference:

Storage Method	Container Type	Duration
Refrigerator	Airtight container	3-4 days
Freezer	Freezer-safe	Up to 3 months

To reheat, place the pork chops and gravy in a skillet over low heat and cover to keep moisture in. Stir gently until hot.

For a faster option, use the microwave and cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Freezing potatoes may change their texture slightly, but the dish still reheats well and remains flavorful.

For a step-by-step guide about storing and reheating, check this breakdown from How To Cook – Guide.

Nutrition Fact In List Form

Here are the nutrition facts for a typical serving of smothered pork chops with potatoes in gravy:

Calories:

• Each serving has about 208 to 240 calories, depending on the ingredients and portion size. See details for smothered pork chops calories.

Macronutrients:

• Protein: 22g – 28g per serving
• Fat: 10g – 15g per serving
• Carbohydrates: 10g – 16g per serving

Vitamins and Minerals:

• This dish offers protein, potassium, and vitamin B6.
• Onions and potatoes add some iron and vitamin C.

Nutrient Breakdown Table

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	208 – 240
Protein	22g – 28g
Fat	10g – 15g
Carbohydrates	10g – 16g
Potassium	12% DV
Vitamin B6	76% DV

Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Nutritional values change based on the cut of pork, the amount of gravy, and how much potato you add. For a detailed breakdown by ingredient, check out this smothered pork chops nutrition guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

The right marinade, gravy, and cook time help make juicy, flavorful pork chops. Cooking pork chops and potatoes together is easy if you follow a few simple steps.

What is the best marinade to tenderize pork chops?

Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a bit of soy sauce for a good marinade. Adding an acidic ingredient, like vinegar or lemon, makes the meat more tender. Let the pork chops soak for at least 30 minutes for the best results.

How long should pork chops be cooked in the oven when smothered in gravy?

Bake pork chops covered in gravy with potatoes at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes. Bone-in chops may need a few more minutes to become tender. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe eating. For full instructions, visit Gourmet Mastermind’s guide.

Can pork chops and potatoes be cooked together without impacting flavor?

You can cook pork chops and potatoes together in one pan. The potatoes absorb the savory gravy and become more flavorful. Cut the potatoes in larger chunks to keep them from getting too soft.

Which ingredients create the best gravy for smothered pork chops?

Use onion, garlic, flour, butter, chicken broth, and herbs like thyme or rosemary for a classic gravy. Add a splash of cream for richness or mushrooms for extra flavor if you like. For step-by-step details, see this recipe for smothered pork chops with potatoes.

How can I ensure my smothered pork chops aren’t tough?

Use a meat thermometer and cook pork until it reaches 145°F. Sear the chops first to seal in juices, then bake them in gravy to keep the meat moist. Avoid overcooking, and use a marinade to help keep the pork tender.

Is it possible to make easy and flavorful smothered pork chops using mushroom soup?

Yes, canned mushroom soup is a popular shortcut for smothered pork chops. It creates a creamy gravy with very little effort.

Mix the soup with a bit of broth or milk. Pour it over the pork chops and potatoes.

Bake until everything is cooked through. This method saves time, and many families enjoy the mild mushroom flavor.