Peppercorn Sauce Pork Chops – Easy & Creamy Recipe

Discover how to make Peppercorn Sauce Pork Chops with a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion treat.

Peppercorn Sauce Pork Chops

Why You’ll Love It

If you’re looking for a delicious way to elevate your pork chops, Peppercorn Sauce Pork Chops deliver with a creamy, luxurious sauce packed with flavor. This dish is quick to prepare, perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without any stress. The peppercorn sauce adds a delightful peppery kick balanced by rich creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tender meat.

This recipe is straightforward and uses ingredients you might already have, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned pros. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. For more inspiration, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners and Pork Recipes.

While this recipe highlights the classic cream-based sauce, if you’re interested in other delicious sauce ideas, Food Network offers a variety of options worth exploring.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick) – bone-in for juiciness; boneless can be substituted
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – substitute with vegetable or avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons butter – can use ghee or dairy-free butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped – onion or leek can be used if unavailable
• 1/4 cup brandy or cognac (optional) – chicken broth as a non-alcoholic alternative
• 1 cup heavy cream – coconut cream for dairy-free option
• 2 tablespoons green peppercorns in brine, drained – black peppercorns crushed for variation
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – whole grain mustard for texture variation

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pat pork chops dry and season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet until shimmering.
3. Sear pork chops 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked about halfway through. Remove from pan and keep warm.
4. Add butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in finely chopped shallots and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes.
5. If using, carefully add brandy to deglaze the pan; cook for about 1 minute until reduced.
6. Pour in heavy cream, stir in Dijon mustard and green peppercorns. Simmer gently until sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Return pork chops to the pan, spoon sauce over them, and simmer an additional 5 minutes or until the chops are fully cooked (internal temperature 145°F).
8. Serve pork chops with sauce spooned over top and your choice of sides.

Expert Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork chops reach 145°F for perfect juiciness.
• If you don’t have green peppercorns, crushed black peppercorns work well, but adjust quantity to taste.
• Make the sauce ahead by preparing it and reheating gently, adding a splash of cream to loosen if thickened.
• For thicker sauce, simmer a bit longer; for thinner, add a splash of broth or cream.

Storage

Leftover pork chops in peppercorn sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to avoid drying out the meat. You can freeze pork chops and sauce separately for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Ensure brandy or cognac is gluten-free or substitute with gluten-free chicken broth.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free butter alternatives.
• Vegan: Substitute pork chops with thick grilled portobello mushrooms or seitan and use plant-based cream and butter.
• Refined Sugar-Free: This recipe contains no added sugar, so it fits refined sugar-free diets as is.

FAQ

• What is the best cut of pork for Peppercorn Sauce Pork Chops? Bone-in pork chops about 1-inch thick are ideal for juiciness and flavor, but boneless chops work too.
• Can I make Peppercorn Sauce Pork Chops ahead of time? Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and reheated; pork chops reheat best gently to avoid drying out.
• What should I serve with Peppercorn Sauce Pork Chops? Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement this dish perfectly.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, pork chops with sauce freeze well, but freeze sauce and meat separately for best texture.
• How do I make a dairy-free Peppercorn Sauce Pork Chops? Use coconut cream and a dairy-free butter substitute instead of traditional cream and butter.

Call to Action

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