Smothered Baked Pork Chops with Onions

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Smothered Baked Pork Chops with Onions
📖 Introduction:
There’s something deeply satisfying about a hearty home-cooked dish that fills the kitchen with savory aromas and warmth. Smothered Baked Pork Chops with Onions is the definition of comfort food—tender, juicy chops layered over a bed of sweet, caramelized onions and baked to perfection. This classic recipe brings together rustic flavors and simplicity, perfect for a Sunday dinner or a cozy family meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.
🧾 Ingredients:
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4–6 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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2 large onions, thinly sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
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Optional garnish: Chopped fresh parsley or chives
👩🍳 Instructions:
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Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. -
Season the Pork Chops:
Pat pork chops dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme. -
Sear for Flavor:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown (they do not need to cook through). Remove and set aside. -
Cook the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. -
Deglaze:
Pour in the broth, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.ADVERTISEMENT
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Layer and Bake:
Transfer the onion mixture into the baking dish, spreading evenly. Place the seared pork chops on top. Cover the dish tightly with foil. -
Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the pork chops are tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C). -
Garnish and Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.
💬 Conclusion:
These Smothered Baked Pork Chops with Onions are the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the table. Rich, savory, and packed with down-home flavor, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat. Serve it up with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crusty piece of bread to soak up those golden onions—you’ll be glad you did.