Pin Juicy seared pork chops served atop creamy cheddar mashed potatoes, finished with a savory pan gravy and crisp green beans for a comforting, satisfying meal.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite for weeknight dinners because of its hearty flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
- Pork Chops: 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick), 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
- Cheddar Mashed Potatoes: 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cubed, 1 tsp salt, 4 tbsp unsalted butter, ½ cup whole milk (more as needed), 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded, ¼ tsp ground white pepper
- Pan Gravy: 2 tbsp pan drippings (from pork chops), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour for GF option), 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, Salt & pepper to taste
- Green Beans: 12 oz fresh green beans trimmed, 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the mashed potatoes:
- Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, 15–18 minutes. Drain, return to pot, and mash with butter, milk, cheddar, and white pepper until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
- Sear pork chops:
- While potatoes cook, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear chops 3–4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through (145°F/63°C internal temp). Add thyme sprig for extra flavor if desired. Transfer chops to a plate tented with foil.
- Make pan gravy:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to skillet drippings, then stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and Dijon. Simmer, whisking constantly, until thickened, 3–5 minutes. Season to taste.
- Prepare green beans:
- While gravy simmers, toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Steam or sauté until bright green and crisp-tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Assemble bowls:
- Spoon cheddar mashed potatoes into bowls. Top with a pork chop, drizzle with pan gravy, and serve green beans on the side.
Pin This dish often brings the family together around the table, enjoying a warm and hearty meal with smiles.
Notes
Try swapping green beans for steamed broccoli or roasted carrots. Pair with a dry white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir.
Required Tools
Large pot, Colander, Potato masher or ricer, Large skillet, Whisk, Tongs, Steamer basket or sauté pan
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese, butter, milk), Wheat (flour in gravy use GF flour if needed). May contain Mustard (in Dijon). Always check product labels for allergens.
Pin This recipe combines simple techniques with delicious flavors for a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you get tender pork chops?
Season pork chops with salt and pepper, then sear over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juiciness and tenderness.
- → What makes the mashed potatoes creamy?
Boiling Yukon Gold potatoes until fork-tender, then mashing with butter, whole milk, sharp cheddar cheese, and a pinch of white pepper creates a smooth, creamy texture.
- → Can I make the gravy gluten free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the pan gravy without affecting flavor.
- → How should green beans be cooked for crispness?
Toss fresh green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then steam or sauté for 5–7 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
- → What herbs enhance the pork chops’ flavor?
Adding a sprig of fresh thyme while searing pork chops infuses a subtle herbal note that complements the dish.