Craving a dinner that’s rich, comforting, and ready in no time? These Creamy Bacon Pork Chops are your answer. Pan-seared to golden perfection and smothered in a luscious bacon-infused cream sauce, this dish brings bold flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. The smoky crunch of bacon paired with tender pork and a velvety sauce makes it an irresistible choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Simple yet indulgent, it’s a recipe that proves you don’t need hours to create something delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bacon Bliss: Crispy bacon adds unbeatable flavor and texture to the sauce.
- Quick Cooking: Creamy Bacon Pork Chops are ready in half an hour.
- Rich and Creamy: Heavy cream creates a luxurious, silky finish.
- Minimal Effort: Easy steps and pantry staples make it fuss-free.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The savory combo appeals to everyone at the table.
Tools Needed
To make these Creamy Bacon Pork Chops, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials. Need better gear? Visit Our Shop at /shop for top-quality tools! Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Skillet: A sturdy skillet cooks bacon and pork evenly while building the sauce.
- Tongs: Perfect for flipping pork chops without losing juices.
- Whisk: Ensures a smooth, lump-free cream sauce.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: Checks pork doneness for juicy results.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
- 4 pork chops (0.75-1″ thick, boneless or bone-in, see notes)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, see step 5)
- 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
For the Creamy Bacon Sauce
- 1 tablespoon flour
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ cup heavy/whipping cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, to taste)
Directions
- Prep the Pork: Remove pork chops from the fridge 15-30 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Bacon: Cut bacon into small pieces (kitchen shears work great) and cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sear the Pork: Add pork chops to the skillet with bacon fat. Cook 3-5 minutes per side (3 for thinner chops, 5 for thicker ones) until golden. Transfer to a plate.
- Make the Base: If the skillet is dry, add 1 tablespoon butter. Otherwise, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon flour, stir, and cook for 30 seconds.
- Build the Sauce: Whisk in chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Cook for 1 minute until slightly reduced. Stir in the heavy cream.
- Finish the Dish: Return bacon and pork chops (with any plate juices) to the skillet. Cook 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Let it bubble gently, not boil. Remove from heat if close to 145°F and rest briefly.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Expert Tips For Perfect Creamy Bacon Pork Chops
- Room Temp Pork: Letting chops sit out ensures even cooking.
- Crisp Bacon: Cook until fully crispy for the best texture in your Creamy Bacon Pork Chops.
- Gentle Simmer: Keep the sauce at a low bubble to avoid separating the cream.
- Check Doneness: Use a thermometer—145°F (63°C) keeps pork juicy and safe.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Pork: Stop at 145°F (63°C) to avoid dryness—residual heat finishes it.
- Burning Flour: Stir constantly and keep heat medium to prevent scorching.
- Too Much Fat: Drain excess bacon grease beyond 2 tablespoons for a balanced sauce.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
- Herb Boost: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Mushroom Twist: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the bacon.
- Lighten Up: Swap half the cream for extra broth (texture will thin slightly).
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Creamy Bacon Pork Chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce—microwave works too, but stir midway to keep it smooth. Freezing isn’t recommended as the cream sauce may separate, but if needed, freeze for up to 1 month and thaw overnight before reheating gently.
FAQs
**1. Can I use thick-cut pork chops for **Creamy Bacon Pork Chops?
Yes, but cook longer (6-8 minutes/side) and check for 145°F (63°C).
2. What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies pair perfectly with the sauce.
3. Can I skip the bacon?
You can, but it’s key to the flavor—try pancetta or skip and add extra butter.
4. How do I know the pork is done?
An instant-read thermometer should hit 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
5. Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and may curdle if boiled.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend for a GF version.
Conclusion
These Creamy Bacon Pork Chops are the ultimate quick-fix meal, blending smoky bacon, tender pork, and a dreamy cream sauce into a dish that’s pure comfort. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re perfect for those nights when you want big flavor without big effort. Whether you’re cooking for family or savoring a solo dinner, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. Fire up your skillet, crisp that bacon, and dive into a plate of creamy, savory goodness—you’ll be hooked!
Word Count: 877
Focus Keyword Density: Approximately 1.5% (13 mentions of “Creamy Bacon Pork Chops“)
External Links:
- “cayenne” linked to Bon Appétit
- “thyme” linked to Food Network
