Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pork Chops

Introduction

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pork Chops are a perfect marriage of juicy, tender pork and a luscious, rich sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a touch of cream. This dish stands out because it elevates simple pork chops into a restaurant-quality meal without complex techniques. The sauce is tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet, making every bite irresistible. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress both your family and guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The pork chops remain tender and juicy while the sun-dried tomato cream sauce adds depth and elegance to the dish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but decadent enough for a celebratory meal. The combination of garlic, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes brings a burst of flavor that lingers in the mouth, making it hard to resist seconds.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it transforms ordinary pork chops into something gourmet. Many pork recipes end up dry or bland, but the creamy tomato sauce locks in moisture and infuses the meat with rich flavor. It’s also versatile—you can serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables, making it a complete meal. Its elegant appearance and restaurant-style taste make it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~420 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear pork chops for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan.
4. In the same pan, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add chicken broth, cream, and herbs. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, then return pork chops to the pan and coat with sauce.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep the Pork Chops

• Pat pork chops dry with a paper towel.
• Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add pork chops and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
• Remove from pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes.
• Pour in chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan.
• Add heavy cream and Italian herbs. Simmer 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

• Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
• Return pork chops to the skillet and coat them with the sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes to heat through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.
• Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
• Drizzle extra sauce over the meat for maximum flavor.

Additional Recipe Tips

• For extra tenderness, let pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking.
• Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for richer flavor.
• Don’t overcook pork chops; 145°F internal temperature ensures juiciness.

Variations

• Mushroom Version: Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor.
• Spicy Version: Include red pepper flakes for a mild heat.
• White Wine Version: Replace half of the chicken broth with white wine for a tangy twist.
• Cheesy Version: Top with mozzarella or provolone for extra creaminess.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked pork chops and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over low heat.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs for turning pork chops
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and chopping board

FAQ

Q1: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, but increase cooking time by a few minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Q2: Can I use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but heavy cream provides a richer, creamier texture. Light cream or milk may result in a thinner sauce.

Q3: Can this recipe be made in the oven?
Yes, sear pork chops on the stovetop, then bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Prepare sauce on stovetop separately.

Q4: How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Simmer gently and avoid boiling after adding cream. Stir constantly while heating.

Q5: Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream and use vegan Parmesan.

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pork Chops are the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Juicy pork, a decadent tomato cream sauce, and aromatic herbs make this dish unforgettable. Easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant for entertaining, this recipe is versatile, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.