Tender Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a mouthwatering recipe for Instant Pot Pork Chops? Picture this: perfectly tender pork chops swimming in a luscious mushroom gravy that will have your whole family gathered around the table in minutes. This recipe has become my go-to for those cozy nights when I crave big flavors without the fuss of a pile of dishes. The Instant Pot works its magic by infusing the pork chops with deep, savory goodness, all while keeping cleanup to a minimum.

The secret to the irresistible aroma and taste of these Instant Pot Pork Chops lies in the harmonious blend of ingredients, with fresh thyme taking the spotlight. As the fragrant thyme permeates your kitchen, you’ll find yourself transported to a scene of warmth and togetherness, much like those nostalgic Sundays with loved ones. And let’s not forget about those mushrooms – they add a delightful earthy note that perfectly complements the juicy pork chops. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot enthusiast or a newbie looking to simplify your weeknight meals, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Quick Benefits

• Saves time: Enjoy tender and flavorful pork chops with savory mushroom gravy in just a fraction of the time using the Instant Pot.
• Easy cleanup: Cook everything in one pot for deep flavors without a sink full of dishes.
• Versatile: Customize with different herbs and vegetables, swap ingredients, or serve with various sides for a personalized dining experience.
• Make ahead-friendly: Store leftover pork chops and gravy for up to three days in the fridge or freeze sliced pork for up to two months for a quick meal option.

Why You’ll Love This Tender Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together in the Instant Pot, creating deep flavors without a pile of dishes to wash, making this recipe a convenient weeknight meal solution.
• Tender and Flavorful: The Instant Pot method yields incredibly tender and flavorful pork chops that will impress your family and guests alike.
• Aromatic Herb Highlight: The use of fresh thyme adds a delightful, cozy aroma to the dish, enhancing the overall experience of the meal.
• Family Favorite: This recipe is perfect for family meals, and kids might even sneak a taste due to the irresistible savory aromas.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftover pork chops and gravy can be stored for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prepping ahead of time.
• Versatile Options: You can customize this recipe by using different herbs, vegetables, and broth variations to suit your personal preferences.
• Classic Comfort Food: Instant Pot pork chops offer a modern twist on a classic dish, providing comfort and flavor in a fraction of the time it takes to cook traditionally.
• Flavorful Pairings: Enjoy the pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Kid-Friendly Twist: Create a quick pork sandwich by piling the pork on a toasted bun with leftover gravy – a fun and tasty way to repurpose leftovers.
• Nostalgic Experience: This recipe captures the essence of a traditional family dinner with a contemporary twist, creating a memorable dining experience for all.

Ingredients for Tender Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe

Main

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• 4 bone-in pork chops, 140–225 grams each
• Black pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 2 teaspoons (6 g) garlic, finely minced
• 1/3 cup (50 g) onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons (2 g) fresh thyme leaves
• 3 tablespoons (42 g) unsalted butter
• 340 g mushrooms, sliced

Broth and Thickeners

• 300 ml chicken broth, divided use
• 1 1/2 tablespoons (12 g) corn starch

Finish

• 2 tablespoons (6 g) fresh parsley, chopped

Pro Tips for Tender Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe

Pro tip: Consider browning the pork chops before pressure cooking to enhance their flavor and appearance. This simple step can elevate the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Pro tip: If you prefer a thicker gravy, adjust the cornstarch slurry amount to reach your desired consistency. Just remember to simmer the gravy for a bit after adding the slurry to ensure it thickens properly.

Pro tip: For a twist on the recipe, experiment with different mushroom varieties like button or cremini for unique flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to customize the dish to suit your preferences and make it your own.

How to Make Tender Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Pressure Cooker and Pork Chops

1. Select sauté mode on the Instant Pot and heat olive oil. Season pork chops with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear Pork Chops

Place pork chops in a single layer in the pot and brown each side for 3–4 minutes until well-seared. Remove and set aside, working in batches if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In a pot, melt butter. Add diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add Thyme and Broth

Add fresh thyme leaves and cook for 30 seconds. Pour 240 ml of chicken broth into the pot, then return the pork chops.

Step 5: Pressure Cook Pork Chops

Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.

Step 6: Release Pressure and Remove Pork Chops

Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release. Transfer pork chops to a plate and keep them warm.

Step 7: Prepare Gravy

Heat the pot on sauté mode. Mix corn starch with the remaining 60 ml chicken broth until smooth. Pour the mixture into the pot and simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Drizzle pork chops with mushroom gravy and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Storage Tips

After making these delightful Instant Pot pork chops with mushroom gravy, you can store any leftovers to enjoy later. Simply place the pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to three days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to reheat the dish gently over low heat when ready to eat. If you have any extra gravy, store it separately from the pork to prevent sogginess.

For longer-term storage, you have the option to freeze the pork chops. Slice the pork and store it in a tightly sealed bag in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen pork chops, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Consider adding a splash of broth to the sauce during reheating to help loosen it up if needed. These storage tips ensure that you can savor your Instant Pot pork chops and mushroom gravy at their best, whether you’re enjoying them fresh or from the freezer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have bone-in pork chops, boneless pork chops can be used as a substitute. Just be mindful to reduce the cooking time to prevent them from drying out. Browning the meat before pressure cooking will help enhance the flavor and appearance of the dish.

In case you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can swap them out for diced bell peppers or zucchini for a lighter alternative. If you’re out of fresh thyme, Italian seasoning or sage can be used for a different flavor profile. Additionally, if you prefer a deeper taste, low-sodium beef broth can be used instead of chicken broth.

For thickening the gravy, you can add a bit more cornstarch slurry and simmer until you achieve the desired consistency. Leftover pork chops and gravy can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container and reheated gently when ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try pairing these tender Instant Pot pork chops with a side of creamy polenta. The rich and velvety texture of the polenta will perfectly complement the savory mushroom gravy, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Another fun idea is to serve these flavorful pork chops over a bed of buttery egg noodles tossed with sautéed spinach and garlic. The noodles will soak up the delicious gravy, while the spinach adds a vibrant touch and a hint of freshness to the dish. This combination of flavors and textures will elevate your weeknight dinner to a restaurant-worthy experience that your family will love.

FAQs for Tender Instant Pot Pork Chops Recipe

Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?

Yes, boneless pork chops work well but may cook slightly faster. Check for doneness to avoid overcooking.

Why is it recommended to brown the pork chops before pressure cooking?

Browning adds flavor and color to the meat, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Can I use a different type of mushroom besides button or cremini?

Button or cremini mushrooms both complement the dish well, but you may use your preferred variety for a different flavor profile.

How can I adjust the gravy’s thickness?

To thicken the gravy, add a bit more cornstarch slurry and simmer until you reach the desired consistency.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Instant Pot Pork Chops brings as much warmth and joy to your table as it does to mine. The convenience of pressure cooking combined with the rich flavors of the savory mushroom gravy make this dish a true winner for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Don’t forget to savor every bite and appreciate the time saved on cleanup with this one-pot wonder!

Experiment with different herbs, vegetables, and side dishes to make this recipe your own. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or add your own twist, these Instant Pot Pork Chops are sure to become a family favorite. So, fire up your Instant Pot and enjoy the delicious aromas that will fill your kitchen as you create this comforting meal. Happy cooking with Instant Pot Pork Chops!