This Easy Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pork Chops dish is a delightful meal! Juicy pork chops are topped with a tasty sauce made from fresh spinach and mushrooms, making it rich and satisfying.
Honestly, it feels fancy without the fuss. I love serving it with rice or pasta to soak up that creamy goodness. You’ll want seconds for sure! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless, 1-inch thick pork chops are perfect for tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can work too, but they may cook faster. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a nice depth of flavor, but white mushrooms are also great. If you’re looking for a more earthy taste, try shiitake mushrooms. They’re a fantastic option if you can find them!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream can work well—just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor a bit.
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach is soft and wilts down nicely. Swiss chard or kale can be good substitutes if you’re looking for something heartier, but you’ll need to cook them a bit longer to soften.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice umami flavor. You can replace it with Pecorino Romano if you like a stronger taste, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
How Do You Get Perfectly Sear Your Pork Chops?
Getting a nice sear on your pork chops is key to adding flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels—this helps them brown better.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding olive oil. A hot skillet is crucial for a good sear.
- Carefully place the pork chops in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t move them around too much! Let them stay undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side to achieve that golden crust.
Make sure to check the internal temperature; it’s done when it reaches 145°F (63°C). Using a meat thermometer can help ensure your pork is perfectly cooked!
Easy Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner. You’ll have rich, creamy pork chops ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to add flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them until they’re golden brown, which should take about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until they begin to release their moisture and turn brown. This will enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!
4. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s nice and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together while scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will bring all that flavor into your sauce!
6. Stir in Flavorings:
Next, add the Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), grated Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, thickening nicely as it cooks.
7. Incorporate Spinach:
Add the fresh baby spinach to the sauce and mix until it wilts down. It won’t take long, just a minute or two!
8. Return Pork Chops to the Skillet:
Now it’s time to bring back the pork chops! Place them back in the skillet and spoon some of that creamy sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let everything cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give your sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to make it perfect!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely finish. Serve your tender pork chops hot with the creamy mushroom-spinach sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Enjoy every bite! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe is perfect for pork chops, you can also use chicken breasts or thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken may cook faster than pork.
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even sour cream for a tangy twist. For a lighter option, use evaporated milk, but keep in mind that the sauce will be slightly less creamy.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and pork chops in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
