Baked Pork Chop Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe

Baked pork chops are a go-to comfort food for many, offering rich flavors and a satisfying meal with minimal effort. But, when you add cream of mushroom soup to the equation, it turns an already delicious dish into a savory masterpiece. The soup brings creaminess, depth, and that unmistakable umami flavor, which perfectly complements the pork. This recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and taste, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family gathering.

In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through the Baked Pork Chop with Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers versatility, delicious flavors, and a comforting result every time.

Baked Pork Chop Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe

This is a simple, one-pan recipe that infuses the pork chops with a rich mushroom sauce while allowing the chops to remain tender and juicy. The combination of the pork, the savory mushroom soup, and seasoning creates a harmonious flavor profile that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Ingredients Needed

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (or boneless, if preferred)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup (choose a high-quality brand or homemade if you prefer)
• 1 cup of chicken broth (for added moisture)
• 2 tbsp of olive oil (for searing the pork chops)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 tsp of salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp of black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp of dried thyme (or fresh, for a more robust flavor)
• 1 tsp of dried rosemary (optional, but it adds a great earthy touch)
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra creaminess and a crispy topping)
• 1 tbsp of fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a pork chop dinner that’s both tasty and hassle-free.

1. Preheat your oven: Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to bake the pork chops thoroughly while keeping them juicy.

2. Prepare The Pork Chops

   • If your pork chops have excess fat, trim it off.
   • Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps in getting a nice sear.
   • Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and half of the thyme and rosemary.

3. Sear The Pork Chops

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Once hot, add the pork chops and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. The goal here is to develop flavor without cooking them through.

4. Prepare The Mushroom Sauce

   • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and garlic (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
   • Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth, mixing well. Add the remaining thyme and rosemary. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

5. Bake The Dish

   • Once the sauce is mixed and smooth, return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top.
   • Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

6. Optional Cheesy Topping

   • If you like a cheesy, golden crust, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pork chops during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds an irresistible layer of flavor and texture.

7. Garnish And Serve

   • Once done, remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve the pork chops with the creamy mushroom sauce spooned over the top.

Ingredient Insights

• Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for this recipe because the bone helps keep the meat juicy while it bakes. If you prefer boneless, they’ll still turn out delicious but might cook slightly faster. Always try to buy pork chops that are about 1-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This ingredient is the heart of the dish. It’s quick, convenient, and packed with flavor. For a healthier version, you can opt for a low-sodium or reduced-fat version. Alternatively, you can make your own cream of mushroom soup at home using fresh mushrooms, heavy cream, and a bit of flour to thicken.
• Chicken Broth: This is used to thin the cream of mushroom soup, making it more of a sauce that can coat the pork chops. You can use vegetable broth or even water if you prefer a lighter flavor.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Thyme and rosemary bring an earthy depth to the dish, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other herbs like sage or oregano for a unique twist. Garlic, when sautéed, adds a wonderful aroma and enhances the savory flavors.

Expert Tips

• Searing the Pork Chops: Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a beautiful caramelized crust to the pork, sealing in juices and giving the dish a deeper flavor. Just make sure you don’t overcook them in the pan-you’re aiming for a golden brown sear, not full cooking.
• Oven Time: Every oven behaves a bit differently, so make sure to check the internal temperature of the pork chops using a meat thermometer. Pork is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C). Overcooking it can lead to dry meat, so don’t rush it!
• Homemade Mushroom Soup: If you want to take this dish to the next level, try making your own cream of mushroom soup. Sautee some mushrooms, add a little garlic, and cook it down with some heavy cream and a bit of flour to thicken. It’s worth the extra time!
• Resting the Meat: Once the pork chops are out of the oven, let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is quite versatile! You can adjust it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Swap the Mushroom Soup: While this recipe calls for cream of mushroom soup, you can easily swap it out for cream of chicken or even cream of celery soup. They’ll all create a creamy, rich sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Want to make this a one-pan meal? You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the skillet. Just make sure they’re cut into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, oregano, or tarragon. Each will change the flavor profile subtly, so you can make the dish your own.
• Cheese Topping: If Parmesan isn’t your thing, try cheddar cheese or Gruyère for a different twist. A melty cheese crust on top of baked pork chops is always a crowd-pleaser.

Final Words

Baked pork chops with cream of mushroom soup is an effortless yet flavorful dish that can quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With the combination of juicy pork, creamy mushroom sauce, and the simplicity of the ingredients, it’s easy to see why this recipe is loved by so many. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a weeknight meal for one, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite.