These creamy bacon pork chops are packed with flavor! Juicy pork chops are cooked with crispy bacon and a rich, creamy sauce that makes each bite truly delightful.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of bacon and cream? I like to serve these chops with mashed potatoes—they soak up all that yummy sauce perfectly! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops are my go-to for this recipe. They are tender and cook quickly. If you prefer, bone-in chops work well too, just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can be a good substitute, though the flavor will be a bit different.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich. Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option!
Chicken Broth: Homemade or store-bought chicken broth does the trick. For a vegetarian alternative, vegetable broth works, but it will change the flavor profile a bit.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice tang to the sauce. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can work in a pinch but will be milder in taste.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
The key to juicy pork chops is not overcooking them. Here are some tips to nail that perfectly cooked chop:
- Bring pork chops to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 145°F (63°C) is perfect!
- Let the cooked chops rest for a few minutes after removing them from the pan. This helps the juices redistribute.
By following these techniques, you’ll have deliciously tender pork chops every time!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or bacon grease reserved)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy bacon pork chop dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep work like seasoning and dicing the bacon, followed by 20 minutes of cooking time. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Pork Chops:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of your pork chops with salt and black pepper. This will help enhance the flavors while cooking!
2. Prepare the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it becomes crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside, but keep the bacon fat in the skillet!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
If needed, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the bacon fat for extra flavor. Increase the heat to medium-high, and add the seasoned pork chops to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the chops from the skillet and place them on a plate.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it smells fragrant but be careful not to burn it! Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Add Cream and Flavor:
Now stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a creamy texture.
6. Combine It All:
Return the pork chops back to the skillet and spoon some of that rich sauce over them. Let them cook together for another 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
7. Final Touches:
Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces on top of the pork chops and sauce. For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy bacon pork chops hot with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or rice to soak up all that luscious sauce. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to boneless chops.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or a non-dairy creamer, but keep in mind this will change the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream or broth to rehydrate the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them after cooking the bacon and before adding the garlic!
