There’s something special about a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. This one, with its rich, savory gravy and melting cheese, does exactly that.
It transforms simple pork chops into something truly memorable, a perfect centerpiece for a cozy family dinner. Let’s get started on creating that comfort.
A Word on Your Main Player
The pork chop you choose is the foundation of this whole meal. Thicker, boneless cuts, about an inch thick, are genuinely the best choice here.
They stay wonderfully juicy during the baking time, soaking up all that incredible onion gravy without a worry. Thinner chops can work, but they’ll need a much shorter stay in the oven.
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
This is where the magic begins, with a blend of pantry staples and a few fresh items. Each one builds a layer of that deep, comforting flavor.
- Boneless Pork Chops (4-6, 1-inch thick): The hearty star of the show, their thickness ensures they stay tender.
- Yellow Onion, sliced: It caramelizes into a sweet, savory base that defines the “French onion” character.
- Butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Used for both searing the meat and sautéing the onions, building fond and richness.
- Gravy Master (1 tablespoon): This secret weapon adds a deep, caramelized color and rich flavor; soy sauce is a fine stand-in.
- Campbell’s French Onion Soup & Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can each): They create the instantly flavorful, velvety gravy base we all love.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): It thins the gravy mixture to the perfect, spoonable consistency.
- Provolone Cheese Slices (4-6): They melt into the gravy, creating a luscious, cheesy blanket over everything.
- Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Chili Powder: A simple, balanced blend to season the meat and onions perfectly.
How to make ?
Step 1 – Season and Sear the Chops
Pat your pork chops completely dry with a paper towel; this is the key to a beautiful sear. Give them a light, even sprinkle of all your seasonings on both sides.
Melt half of your butter in a hot skillet, then sear the chops for a few minutes per side until they have a nice golden crust. You’re not cooking them through, just building flavor. Set them aside on a plate.
Step 2 – Build the Onion Gravy Base
In that same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add your sliced onions. Scrape up any tasty bits left from the pork. Let the onions cook slowly until they’re soft and golden.
Add the splash of Gravy Master and the entire can of French onion soup. Let this simmer together for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s wonderfully fragrant and combined.
Step 3 – Create the Creamy Gravy
In a separate bowl, whisk together the can of cream of mushroom soup and the chicken broth until it’s smooth and lump-free. This step prevents any surprise clumps in your final sauce.
Pour this creamy mixture into the skillet with your onions. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another ten minutes. You’ll see it all come together into a gorgeous, thick gravy.
Step 4 – Assemble and Bake
Place your seared pork chops in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour every last bit of that onion gravy over the top, making sure each chop is well-covered.
Lay a slice of provolone cheese over each pork chop. As it bakes, it’ll melt and swirl right into the gravy. Bake at 375°F for about 30 minutes, then let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
The Simple Art of Seasoning
Seasoning is a personal dance, not a rigid march. The measurements given are just a friendly starting point, a suggestion from my kitchen to yours.
Feel free to adjust, taste as you go with the onions, and remember the soups add salt. Your own taste buds are the best guide you have.
Tips
- For a distinct cheese layer, bake the chops in the gravy for 20 minutes first, then add the cheese for the final 10 minutes of cook time.
- This recipe adapts beautifully to a slow cooker. After searing and making the gravy, combine everything (hold the cheese) in the pot and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Always let the baked dish rest for a full 10 minutes after the oven. This lets the juices settle back into the meat, guaranteeing a moist bite.
- No Gravy Master in the cupboard? A tablespoon of soy sauce will provide a similar depth of color and that hit of savory umami.
Choosing Your Perfect Side
This rich, gravy-centric dish begs for something to soak up all that goodness. Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic, dreamy partner, creating the ultimate comfort food plate.
Buttered egg noodles or even a simple bed of rice work wonderfully, too. They provide a mild, comforting base that lets the pork chops truly shine.
French Onion Pork Chops Recipe
Description
Savor the comforting flavors of these French Onion Pork Chops, a culinary delight that combines tender pork chops with the rich essence of onions. Each succulent bite is a symphony of savory goodness, as the pork chops soak up the sweet and savory notes of the onions, creating a mouthwatering sensation. With every forkful, you’ll experience the warmth and familiarity of classic comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sear pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add sliced onions and season lightly with the same spices. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until golden brown.
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Stir in Gravy Master (or soy sauce), then add the can of French onion soup. Simmer for 10 minutes, whisking occasionally until smooth.
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In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth until smooth. Pour into the skillet with onions and simmer another 10 minutes.
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Place seared pork chops in a greased baking dish. Pour the onion-soup mixture evenly over the chops.
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Top each chop with a slice of provolone cheese (use more if desired).
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Bake uncovered at 190°C (375°F) for 30 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 23g36%
- Saturated Fat 11g56%
- Cholesterol 115mg39%
- Sodium 980mg41%
- Potassium 620mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 35g70%
- Calcium 15 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Crock Pot Option: Sear chops and cook onions as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Add cheese during the last hour for best texture.
- Cheese Preference: For melted-on-top cheese, add it during the last 5 minutes of baking instead of at the start.
- Serving Suggestion: Pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or crusty bread.
