Juicy Pork Chops with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Juicy Pork Chops with Parmesan Cream Sauce—a savory, tender, and indulgent meal that pairs well with mashed potatoes, veggies, or a side salad.

Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
4 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Parmesan Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning (or dried basil and oregano)
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
1-2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pork Chops:
Season the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Sear the pork chops: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. You want a good sear to lock in the juices. Depending on the thickness, continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the pan and let them rest while you prepare the sauce.

Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Make the sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk continuously to combine, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

Taste and adjust: Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve:
Return pork chops to the skillet: Place the pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some of the Parmesan sauce over them. Let them simmer for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors and warm through.

Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve the pork chops with extra Parmesan sauce drizzled over them.

Serving Suggestions:
Mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables
Fresh bread to soak up the extra sauce