Looking for a dinner that’s rich, flavorful, and ready in a flash? These Cream Cheese Pork Chops are your answer! Smothered in a luscious cream cheese sauce, this dish combines tender pork with a tangy, cheesy twist that’s pure comfort food. In just 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal on the table—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet simple. The creamy sauce, spiked with Parmesan and balsamic vinegar, elevates these pork chops into a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Velvety Sauce: The cream cheese mixture creates a rich, smooth coating for the pork.
- Quick Cooking: These Cream Cheese Pork Chops go from skillet to plate in under half an hour.
- Big Flavor: Balsamic vinegar and lemon juice add a zesty kick to the creamy base.
- Minimal Effort: Simple steps and pantry staples make it a breeze to prepare.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the tender pork and decadent sauce combo.
Tools Needed
To whip up these Cream Cheese Pork Chops, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials. Want to upgrade your gear? Check out Our Shop at /shop for top-quality tools! Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Large Skillet: Ensures even cooking and enough space for the sauce.
- Tongs: Perfect for flipping pork chops without piercing the meat.
- Whisk: Blends the cream cheese sauce smoothly.
- Meat Thermometer: Confirms the pork reaches a safe 145°F (63°C).
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops, 1-inch thick each
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
For the Cream Cheese Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
- Season the Pork: Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chops: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until a meat thermometer reads 145°F (63°C). Remove the chops from the skillet and keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the cubed cream cheese, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice. Cook and stir over medium heat until the mixture is smooth and blended.
- Combine and Heat: Return the pork chops to the skillet, coating them in the cream cheese sauce. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, then serve hot.
Expert Tips For Perfect Cream Cheese Pork Chops
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Let it soften slightly for easier blending into the sauce.
- Low and Slow Sauce: Stir over medium heat to avoid curdling the cream cheese.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Enhances the tanginess—avoid bottled if possible.
- Thick Chops: 1-inch cuts stay juicy and pair perfectly with the rich sauce of Cream Cheese Pork Chops.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pork: Check the temperature to keep the chops tender, not tough.
- High Heat on Sauce: Too much heat can separate the cream cheese—keep it medium.
- Skipping Seasoning: Salt and pepper are key to bringing out the pork’s flavor.
Variations
- Garlic Twist: Add minced garlic to the sauce for extra depth.
- Herb Boost: Stir in fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic lift.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Cream Cheese Pork Chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce—microwaving works too, but stir halfway to keep it creamy. Freezing isn’t ideal due to the cream cheese sauce, which may separate when thawed, but if needed, freeze the cooked chops and sauce separately for up to 1 month.
FAQs
**1. Can I use bone-in pork chops for **Cream Cheese Pork Chops?
Yes, but add 2-3 minutes per side to the cooking time.
2. What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or pasta soak up the sauce beautifully.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead?
Prepare it fresh for best texture, but you can season the chops in advance.
4. How do I know the pork is cooked?
A thermometer should read 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
5. Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Sour cream or heavy cream works, but the texture will differ slightly.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, naturally! Just ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Conclusion
These Cream Cheese Pork Chops are the ultimate quick-fix dinner, blending creamy richness with tender pork in a way that’s both comforting and effortless. Perfect for those nights when you want something special without the hassle, this recipe delivers big on taste with minimal prep. The tangy, cheesy sauce ties it all together, making every bite a delight. So grab your skillet, cube that cream cheese, and treat yourself to a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious—you’ll be hooked after the first forkful!
