There’s nothing quite like the satisfying aroma of succulent pork chops simmering in a creamy mushroom gravy, and thanks to the Instant Pot, this gourmet meal is just a heartbeat away. Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and your stomach is growling, but you’re longing for something comforting and delicious, not the usual takeout. This recipe for Instant Pot Pork Chops will become your go-to solution, effortlessly transforming everyday ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that feels like a warm hug.
As the pressure cooker works its magic, you’ll witness tender, juicy chops drenched in a velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this dish offers everyone a taste of home-cooked goodness without all the fuss. Let’s dive in and discover how simple it can be to bring a little bit of culinary elegance back to your kitchen!
Why love Instant Pot Pork Chops?
Quick and Easy: This recipe allows you to create a fancy dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, Creamy Gravy: The mouthwatering mushroom gravy transforms simple pork chops into a luxurious meal that will impress your family and friends.
Tender and Juicy: Using the Instant Pot means your pork chops will remain delightfully juicy and tender every time.
Versatile Servings: Pair these chops with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for an unforgettable feast.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These pork chops store well, ensuring you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week without sacrificing flavor. Consider trying this with other cuts for even more variety!
Instant Pot Pork Chops Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
• Pork loin center chops – Choose bone-in and well-marbled chops for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Butter – Adds a rich, velvety touch; substitute with olive oil if dairy-free.
For the Spice Blend
• Smoked paprika – Gives a smoky depth; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Onion powder – Enhances savory notes without the bulk of fresh onions.
• Garlic powder – Adds instant flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger taste.
• Black pepper – Freshly cracked is best for a little added zing.
• Oregano – Adds aromatic earthiness; use dried or fresh as per your availability.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust according to your dietary needs.
For the Gravy
• Baby bella mushrooms – These provide a richer flavor compared to button mushrooms; swap if needed.
• Yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots work just as well.
• Garlic – Fresh is best for maximum flavor impact.
• Dried thyme & rosemary – Perfect for aromatic notes; fresh herbs are delightful if you have them.
• Chicken stock – This forms the base of your gravy; vegetable stock can substitute for a vegetarian option.
• Soy sauce – Adds umami; replace with coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
• Worcestershire sauce – Introduces a savory, complex flavor; it can be omitted if desired.
• All-purpose flour – Used for thickening the gravy; cornstarch is a great gluten-free option.
• Heavy cream – For a creamy finish; half-and-half or milk can make it lighter.
Now that we have the ingredients ready, you can easily prepare your Instant Pot Pork Chops and indulge in a delicious meal that will undoubtedly become a favorite!
How to Make Instant Pot Pork Chops
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Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, and salt. This fragrant blend will infuse incredible flavor into your pork chops.
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Tenderize and Season Chops: Gently pound the pork loin chops to ensure even cooking. Rub the spice blend all over the chops, making sure every nook is covered for maximum taste.
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Brown Chops: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and melt the butter. Once hot, add the pork chops and brown them for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. This step locks in flavor.
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Make Gravy Base: Remove the chops from the pot and set them aside. In the remaining butter, sauté baby bella mushrooms, yellow onion, and garlic until they’re fragrant and the onions turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
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Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This step adds richness to your gravy, so don’t skip it!
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Pressure Cook: Return the pork chops to the pot, seal the lid, and set your Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 1 minute. After cooking, allow natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes for perfectly tender chops.
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Finish the Gravy: Carefully remove the pork chops and set them aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and heavy cream. Stir this mixture into the pot, allowing it to simmer and thicken. Adjust seasoning as desired.
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Serve: Spoon the rich gravy generously over the pork chops and enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade meal!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Pork Chops
Fridge: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pork chops for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. This helps maintain the tenderness of your Instant Pot pork chops.
Planning Ahead: Consider portioning out servings before freezing, making it easy to grab a quick meal when time is short.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Pork Chops?
Creating a memorable meal means choosing sides that perfectly complement your tender, flavorful pork chops.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes soak up the rich mushroom gravy beautifully, making every bite more indulgent.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The fresh crunch and slight bitterness of asparagus balance the creaminess of the gravy. Toss with garlic for a flavor boost.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy, warm biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce; they add a comforting Southern touch to your feast.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Their vibrant color and crisp snap offer a fresh contrast to the dish, creating a delightful, textural harmony.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of roasted carrots brightens up the savory flavors, bringing a lovely pop of color to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the hearty richness of the pork chops, making it a delightful side dish for any gathering.
- Chardonnay: A glass of this crisp white wine has the ideal acidity to cut through the richness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy mousse provides a sweet finish, leaving your guests with a smile as memorable as the meal itself.
Instant Pot Pork Chops Variations
Dive into a world of flavor by customizing your pork chops to match your taste and dietary needs!
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Chicken Swap: Replace pork chops with boneless chicken breasts, adjusting the cook time to ensure juicy results. Chicken absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a versatile option.
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Mushroom Alternatives: Opt for shiitake or portobello mushrooms in place of baby bellas. These swaps enhance the dish with different textures and earthy flavors.
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Veggie Boost: Mix in diced carrots or peas in the gravy for added nutrition and color, turning your dish into a vibrant feast.
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Creamy Upgrade: For a more indulgent touch, try adding a splash of white wine and a dash of parmesan cheese to the gravy mixture.
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Herb Infusion: There’s beauty in freshness! Use fresh thyme and rosemary for a more aromatic and vibrant flavor profile that elevates the whole dish.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch for a gluten-free thickening option that keeps the gravy deliciously creamy.
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Spicy Kick: Want to heat things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a zesty finish that warms your palate beautifully.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke for an irresistible, smoky flavor that will make these pork chops truly unforgettable.
Embrace these options for a personalized touch that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Pork Chops are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the pork loin chops with the spice rub and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, which enhances their flavor. Additionally, you can sauté the mushrooms, onions, and garlic, then refrigerate this gravy base for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply deglaze the Instant Pot with chicken stock, add the prepped chops, and pressure cook for just 1 minute. By prepping ahead, you’ll save valuable time on busy weeknights while still enjoying restaurant-quality results, just as delicious as on the day you made them!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Pork Chops
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Choose the Right Cut: Use thick, bone-in pork chops for juicy, tender results. Thinner cuts tend to dry out when pressure-cooked.
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Perfectly Browned Chops: Don’t rush the browning process; it creates flavor. Make sure to brown each side for 2-3 minutes before deglazing.
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Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scraping the bottom of the pot is crucial. Neglecting this step can lead to a “Burn” notice and affect your final dish.
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Natural Pressure Release: Allow 10-15 minutes for the natural release after cooking. This ensures pork chops remain tender and flavorful.
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Thickening the Gravy: For a richer gravy, let the mixture simmer longer after adding the cream. Adjust seasoning as needed for a perfect balance.
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Experiment with Variations: Feel free to try different mushrooms or herbs. This recipe’s versatility allows for endless tasty adaptations of your Instant Pot pork chops.
Instant Pot Pork Chops in Creamy Mushroom Gravy Recipe FAQs
How should I select my pork chops?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for thick, bone-in pork loin center chops. Look for well-marbled meat, as the fat will keep them juicy during cooking. If you prefer boneless, that can work too, but keep an eye on cooking time to avoid overcooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
I recommend placing leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a sealed bag or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They’ll maintain their quality for up to 1 month!
Can I freeze these pork chops?
Yes! Freezing is a fantastic option. After the pork chops have cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap them to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
What if my gravy doesn’t thicken properly?
Very! If your gravy isn’t thickening, make sure you whisk the flour and heavy cream mixture well and give it a little time to simmer. If it still seems thin, you can create a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water. Stir it into the pot and let it simmer until thickened.
Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream. For gluten-free needs, swap all-purpose flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. If you need a soy-free dish, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Just be sure to check labels for any allergens!
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Very! The best way to ensure perfect doneness is to use an instant-read thermometer. Ideally, pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F. If you find that the thickness of your chops affects cooking time, adjusting the pressure release time can help achieve the desired tenderness while still ensuring food safety.
Instant Pot Pork Chops in Creamy Mushroom Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, and salt.
- Tenderize and Season Chops: Gently pound the pork loin chops and rub the spice blend all over them.
- Brown Chops: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function, melt the butter, and brown the chops for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Make Gravy Base: Sauté baby bella mushrooms, yellow onion, and garlic until fragrant and onions turn translucent.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits.
- Pressure Cook: Return the chops to the pot, seal the lid, and pressure cook on high for 1 minute.
- Finish the Gravy: Whisk together flour and heavy cream, then stir into the pot to simmer and thicken.
- Serve: Spoon the rich gravy over the pork chops and enjoy!