A Family Favorite: Center Cut Pork Chops with Sour Cream Sauce and Dill

There's something truly comforting about gathering around the dinner table to share a meal that’s both nourishing and heartwarming. This recipe for Center Cut Pork Chops with Sour Cream Sauce and Dill has a special place in my kitchen. Passed down from my grandmother, it’s a dish full of flavor and love, using simple ingredients to create a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these pork chops are tender, and the sauce—a creamy blend of sour cream, dill, and spices—adds a rich layer that turns an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience. So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into making this delightful dish!

Ingredients

  • 4 center cut pork chops, about 1 inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Preparation Guide

Before we jump into the cooking steps, ensure your chops are at room temperature. This small step goes a long way in making sure your pork chops cook evenly and stay juicy.

Cooking Steps

Searing the Pork Chops

Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. This not only adds flavor but also gives them a gorgeous, appetizing sear. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

Making the Sour Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Reduce the mixture by half, which should take about 4 minutes. Then, lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the sour cream, dill, and paprika. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and uniform. Make sure not to let it boil, as high heat can cause the sour cream to separate.

Combining Components

Add the seared pork chops back into the skillet with the sour cream sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pork chops are completely cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit (62 degrees Celsius) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Serving Suggestions

These creamy, dill-flecked pork chops are best served hot. I love to lay them over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or alongside a crisp green salad. They also pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables or buttered egg noodles. For a rustic touch, sprinkle extra fresh dill over the top before serving.

Additional Tips

  • If you're looking to reduce fat, you can substitute regular sour cream with a lighter version. However, keep an eye on the sauce as it may thin out more quickly.
  • Leftover sauce? It makes a great dip or dressing for the next day. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • For those who love a bit of zing, adding a squeeze of lemon to the sauce just before serving can brighten the whole dish splendidly.

Wrapping It Up

Cooking these Center Cut Pork Chops with Sour Cream Sauce and Dill always brings back cherished memories of family meals filled with laughter and stories. This recipe isn’t just about feeding the body but also comforting the soul. As you give it a try, I hope it becomes a beloved addition to your recipe collection, creating memories around your table as well.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every tender, flavorful bite!