A Comforting Twist: Pork Chops with Garlic Parmesan Gravy and Zoodles

There's something incredibly comforting about a plate of well-cooked pork chops—especially when they're smothered in a creamy, garlic parmesan gravy. But let's not forget the addition of zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a healthier touch! This dish is perfect for anyone looking to impress guests or simply treat themselves to a hearty, flavor-packed meal. Whether you’re a beginner or an avid cook, this recipe will bring warmth and deliciousness to your table.

Today, I'm excited to share my kitchen-tested recipe for 'Pork Chops with Garlic Parmesan Gravy and Zoodles.' Every element in this dish works harmoniously, from the juicy pork chops to the velvety sauce, down to the fresh, light zoodles. And who could resist that? Let's dive into the cooking process!

Ingredients List

Gather these ingredients before you begin cooking:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing Your Pork Chops

Let’s start with the star of the dish—the pork chops. Here's how to get them perfectly cooked:

  • Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple seasoning allows the natural flavor of the pork to shine through while adding an aromatic depth.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Remember, the chops will continue to cook in the gravy later, so don’t worry if they’re not fully done at this stage.
  • Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside. They will be reintegrated with the gravy later on.

Making the Garlic Parmesan Gravy

Now, onto the rich and creamy gravy:

  • Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the pan drippings from the pork chops. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 1 minute.
  • Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, stirring continuously. Cook for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for a couple of minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
  • Add the heavy cream and continue to simmer. Finally, stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, cohesive gravy.

Return the pork chops to the skillet, coating them in the gravy. Let them simmer gently in the sauce for about 5 minutes, or until they're fully cooked through.

Spiralizing and Cooking Zoodles

Zoodles are not just a healthier alternative to pasta; they’re also incredibly easy to prepare:

  • Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchini into noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler can work in a pinch, though it will produce wider, pappardelle-style noodles.
  • In a separate pan, lightly sauté the zoodles in a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until just tender. Be careful not to overcook, as they can turn mushy. Sprinkle a bit of salt to taste.

Plating and Serving

Plating this dish beautifully is part of the fun—here’s how to make it look as good as it tastes:

  • Lay a nest of zoodles on each plate.
  • Top with a pork chop and spoon a generous amount of garlic parmesan gravy over the top.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Your 'Pork Chops with Garlic Parmesan Gravy and Zoodles' is ready to serve! This dish not only satisfies the palate but also comforts the soul with each bite. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend treat. Enjoy your meal with a glass of chilled white wine or a light red if you prefer. Cheers to a delicious, home-cooked masterpiece!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyous activity, one that brings comfort and happiness into your home. This recipe for pork chops with garlic parmesan gravy and zoodles embodies just that. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into an exquisite meal. As you cook, remember to relish each step, from seasoning the meat to plating up. I hope this dish brings as much warmth to your table as it has to mine. Bon appétit!