Delicious Southern Style Pork Chops: A Family Favorite!
Fellow foodies, grab your aprons and get ready for a mouth-watering experience with Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops Recipe. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family and has always been a favorite at the dinner table. Trust me, once you try it, there’s no going back.
Picture yourself biting into a juicy pork chop, oozing with flavors of perfectly seasoned gravy. The crispy breaded exterior leading to a tender, succulent center will have your taste buds begging for more. It’s soul food at its finest, bringing warmth and comfort to your belly.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also easy to make. You only need a handful of ingredients that are easily accessible from your local grocery store or pantry. Plus, the recipe provides flexibility for substitutions and variations to suit your taste buds.
So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to indulge in southern-style goodness that will leave you wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine sinking your teeth into a succulent, fall-off-the-bone southern-style pork chop smothered in a velvety, savory gravy. This smothered pork chops recipe will transport you to the heart of the south with every bite.
What sets this dish apart from the rest is its perfect balance of flavors, textures, and aromas. The pork chops are seasoned to perfection with just the right amount of ground pepper and seasoning salt, then dredged in flour for a crispy crust that’s hard to resist. As they cook slowly in a rich onion gravy, the meat absorbs all the delicious flavors and becomes mouth-wateringly tender.
But that’s not all. This recipe is also versatile and forgiving. You can adapt it to your taste by adding Cajun or smoked pork seasoning for a spicy kick. You can switch up the cut of meat depending on what you have on hand, from boneless pork loin chops to juicy pork tenderloin. And if you’re short on time, you can even cook them in a slow cooker for maximum convenience!
So whether you’re looking to warm your soul with some soul food or impress your guests with a fancy dinner that’s deceptively easy to make, this smothered Southern Style Pork Chops Recipe is all you need. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|———————-|————–|
| Pork Chops, ideally medium-sized and bone-in (Note: boneless pork chops are an option too) | 8 chops |
| Ground Pepper | To taste |
| Seasoning Salt | To taste |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Shortening | 1 tablespoon |
| Warm Water | 3 cups |
| Minced Garlic | 1 tablespoon |
Note: This recipe is made for smothered pork chops with gravy, yet for those who like it crispy could use breaded pork chops.
This recipe has a comprehensive list of ingredients that one can find in their local store. The star ingredient is the pork chops, which are seasoned with ground pepper and seasoning salt to add flavor to it. Additionally, all-purpose flour is used to create a golden-brown crust on them. shortening is also used to be melted before poured into the flour mixture. As for the liquid ingredients, the warm water is a critical component used to create the perfect gravy; with minced garlic added as well for aromatic purposes. With these ingredients put together correctly, The Granny Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops Recipe could be brought to life!
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get into the meaty part of this article – on how to cook Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops. Get your pork chops, seasoning salt, and ground pepper ready for some savory and lip-smacking flavor!
Preparing the Pork Chops
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Start by washing and drying 8 medium-size pork chops.
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In a large deep skillet or cast iron, heat 1 tablespoon of shortening or oil over medium heat until hot.
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Then dredge each pork chop in 2 cups of all-purpose flour seasoned with 1 tablespoon of seasoning salt and 1 teaspoon ground pepper. Make sure to coat the chops evenly for an even crust.
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In the same skillet over medium heat, place each pork chops to cook until golden brown/crispy on both sides. This should take about 3 minutes per side. Do not overcrowd the skillet; it will make the chops tough instead of crispy.
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After cooking, remove the chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before smothering them with gravy.
Making the Onion Gravy
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In the same skillet, keep ¼ cup of drippings if ever there is any left (if not substitute with butter) and add 2 large onions that have been thinly sliced.
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Let them cook until caramelized before stirring in minced garlic.
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Slowly add in 3 cups of warm water while stirring continuously to scrap off any bits at the bottom of the skillet.
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Season with salt and pepper then bring to a boil.
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Reduce to a simmer and let it cook for at least 30 minutes (or until gravy has thickened) while stirring occasionally.
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Once the gravy is done, pour it over the pork chops smothering them entirely! Don’t be afraid to use generous quantities – this recipe Southern Smothered Pork Chops should have a lot of flavorful gravy!
Tips When Cooking the Pork Chops
- Let Pork Chops Rest!
Make sure to allow your pork chops to rest before proceeding to the smothering step. It will let the juices flow back into the meat and create a moister and juicier chop!
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Breaded Pork Chops
For a twist, substitute plain flour with seasoned flour or bread crumbs when dredging the pork chops before cooking. This will give you a crusty breaded pork that can be oven-baked instead of being pan-fried. -
Slow Cooker Smothered Pork
You can also cook these Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop to make it even more tender and flavorful. Just add everything (except the breaded part) to the pot, let it cook-low and slow for 8 hours, and enjoy!
Try serving these Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops
Substitutions and Variations
One of the many pleasures of cooking is the freedom to improvise with ingredients to create something truly unique. This recipe for Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops is no exception. While sticking to traditional southern flavors and textures, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to consider in order to tailor the recipe to your preferences.
First of all, you can try swapping out pork chops for other cuts of pork. Smoked pork or pork tenderloin are both great options that will give the dish a different flavor and texture. You can also use boneless pork loin chops instead of bone-in for an easier eating experience.
If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, try baking the breaded pork chops instead of pan-frying them. This will give them a crispy crust without the added oil from frying. You can also opt for a cajun smothered pork variation by adding some spicy seasoning blends to the flour mixture.
For vegetarians, replacing the pork chops entirely with sliced mushrooms or tofu is a great option. Cook them just as you would the pork chops and serve them smothered in onion gravy for a delicious vegetarian soul food option.
Finally, for those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour with little difference in taste or overall result. Additionally, substituting heavy cream in place of cream of mushroom soup would be an amazing twist on this classic recipe.
Experimenting with these substitutions and variations can give you a new found appreciation for traditional southern cuisine while adding your own personal touch to it!
Serving and Pairing
Picture this: perfectly cooked pork chops, smothered in a rich gravy, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, with crusty bread on the side. That’s what you’ll get when you make my Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops Recipe. This soul food classic is best enjoyed with those you care about.
The rich, savory flavors of this dish pair well with a variety of sides. I highly recommend creamy mashed potatoes or sweet cornbread to complement the smothered pork chops. You could also serve them with baked mac and cheese or collard greens for a true southern-style feast.
For drinks, consider pairing this meal with a glass of sweet tea, lemonade or your favorite light beer to balance out the richness of the dish. And don’t forget to finish off your meal with a juicy slice of watermelon or peach cobbler for dessert.
Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, my Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops Recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s hearty, comforting and flavorful – perfect for any occasion. So go ahead and give it a try, and watch as your loved ones dig into their plates with joyful abandon.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to Southern-style cuisine, there is no denying the fact that the flavors only grow more intense with time. And that’s precisely why you will surely appreciate the make-ahead, storing and reheating tips that I have compiled for Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops recipe.
To begin with, these pork chops are perfect for making ahead of time, as they store effortlessly in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to four days. This makes them an ideal choice when you’re entertaining guests or preparing meal prep for the week ahead.
When it comes time to reheat the smothered pork chops, I recommend covering them with a piece of foil and reheating them in an oven preheated at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
If you happen to have leftovers but can’t eat them right away, simply pop them in your freezer to preserve their freshness for up to three months. To reheat the frozen pork chops, allow them to thaw overnight in your refrigerator before reheating them according to the above instructions.
It’s worth noting that if you find that your pork chops become drier after reheating in the oven, consider adding a small amount of warm water to help remoisten them. Alternatively, you could always drizzle some gravy or cream mushroom sauce over your chops before reheating them, which will help keep them moist and delicious.
Whether you’re making these smothered pork chops ahead of time or just need to store leftovers for later, following these simple guidelines will guarantee that their flavor and texture remain undiminished. So go ahead and make this rustic soul food dish in advance or save it for another night – either way, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops recipe a crowd-pleaser, follow these tips that I’ve tested and approved.
1. Season generously with seasoning salt and ground pepper.
When seasoning the pork chops, I recommend using seasoning salt and ground pepper to add depth of flavor. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning as it creates a well-rounded taste in every bite.
2. Cook pork chops slow and low.
To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture, cook pork chops in low heat for longer periods. If cooked quickly in high heat, the chops may end up tough and dry. For best results, use a slow cooker or a heavy skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Let Pork Chops Rest.
Once the pork chops are done cooking, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, producing tender and succulent results.
4. Use cast iron or heavy skillet for best smothered chops.
A cast iron or heavy skillet distributes heat evenly and maintains a consistent temperature ideal for smothering chops with onion gravy. These types of skillets also provide an excellent surface for achieving that perfect golden-brown crispy texture on breaded pork chops.
5. Experiment with different smothering variations.
Explore different smothering variations such as cajun, cream of mushroom or smoked pork along with onion gravy to switch things up! You could also try this recipe out with boneless pork loin chops or baked pork tenderloin.
With these tips in hand, you’ll be able to make the best smothered southern style pork chops that will have your friends and family asking for seconds!
FAQ
Before we conclude, let us take a moment to answer some frequently asked questions about Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops recipe. These inquiries are common among aspiring home cooks who want to perfect their pork chops or those who want to try something new in their kitchen. So, without further ado, let us get started!
Why are my smothered pork chops tough?
One of the most frequent causes of chewy pork chops is cooking them for too long. Because they are low in fat, they cook quickly, and even a brief overcooking can result in a tough texture. To avoid this, utilize a thermometer to determine when they are fully cooked, and begin testing at the earliest suggested oven time.
What is the secret to making tender pork chops?
As a seasoned chef who specializes in southern cuisine, I highly recommend using thick-cut bone-in pork chops if you want tender, juicy pork chops that are cooked to perfection. Thin-cut pork chops tend to cook too fast and won’t sear as well as the thicker ones.
If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the brine, but make sure to season your pork chops liberally. This will ensure that the flavors infuse into the meat and create an explosion of taste in your mouth.
While many people are tempted to dive in right after cooking, it’s important to let your pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, and the result is a juicy and tender pork chop.
To get that perfect sear on your pork chops, set your stove to medium-high and give your cast-iron skillet a few minutes to heat up before adding your pork chops. This helps in sealing in the flavors while giving it that desirable crust.
Basting your pork chops while cooking is a fantastic way to ensure a perfect balance of meaty goodness and tangy flavor. Use a blend of herbs and butter for a tantalizing experience.
After cooking and basting, let your pork chops rest again to lock in the flavor that awaits you. Finally, serve these delectable pork chops with a side of your choice, and you’ll have an impressive southern-inspired dish that is sure to please your taste buds.
How long does it take to cook smothered pork chops?
As I start preparing this savory southern-style pork chop recipe, the first step is to mince garlic and add it to a skillet, cooking it until the aroma fills the air, which takes about a minute. Next, I take the pork chops and place them in the seasoned skillet, cooking them until they’re nicely browned on either side – this takes about three minutes per side. Once the pork chops are perfectly cooked, I transfer them to a large baking dish, leaving the delicious pan drippings where they are. The final step before baking the chops is to preheat the oven and then transfer the dish into it to bake for 20 minutes.
How do you cook pork chops so they aren’t tough and dry?
When it comes to cooking pork chops, achieving a golden brown sear can be tricky. However, sear-roasting is an excellent method that involves frying one side of the pork chops to golden brown and then baking them in a moderate oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit to retain moisture and prevent drying. For the best results, it’s recommended to place the pork chops directly in the oven after flipping them.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops Recipe is the perfect soul food meal that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your stomach full. With its tender pork chops smothered in a rich gravy and served alongside crusty bread or mashed potatoes, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to make and incredibly flavorful. So gather your ingredients and give it a try – I promise that you won’t be disappointed!
Granny’s Smothered Southern Style Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 medium pork chops, washed and dried
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons shortening (Crisco is best)
- 4 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
- 1 tablespoon ground pepper
Instructions
- Season the 8 pork chops with the seasoned salt and ground pepper; flour the pork chops on both sides.
- In large iron skillet, heat up shorting until very hot. Reduce heat to medium. Place prepared pork chops into skillet and fry until a dark golden brown on both sides.
- Drain all grease from skillet except one tablespoon. Add 4 cups of warm water; cover with lid and simmer until a thick gravy forms. Let it sit for 10 minutes.