Boneless Pork Chops in Creamy Garlic Spinach

This Boneless Pork Chops in Creamy Garlic Spinach Sauce recipe is a rich and flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Juicy pork chops are seared to perfection and smothered in a creamy, garlicky butter sauce with spinach for an extra layer of flavor. This low-carb, keto-friendly meal is easy to make in one skillet, making it perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 3 boneless pork chops
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, minced
  • ⅓ cup vegetable or chicken stock
  • 1¾ cups half and half or heavy cream
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

  1. Cook the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
  2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. Simmer the Creamy Sauce: Pour in vegetable or chicken stock and let it reduce slightly. Lower the heat and add half and half (or heavy cream). Simmer gently and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add Spinach & Cheese: Stir in baby spinach and allow it to wilt. If using, add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
  5. Finish & Serve: Return pork chops to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to reheat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 640mg

Why Boneless Pork Chops?

Pork chops are a versatile and affordable protein that can be transformed into a wide range of dishes, but they truly shine when cooked properly. Boneless pork chops, in particular, are easy to cook, cook quickly, and have a tender, juicy texture when prepared right. The key to a successful boneless pork chop is a proper sear, which creates a golden-brown crust that locks in the juices, ensuring the meat remains moist and flavorful.

Additionally, pork is a great source of protein, providing essential amino acids to support muscle health, immune function, and overall well-being. Boneless pork chops are also a great choice for those looking to enjoy a low-carb meal, as they pair wonderfully with vegetables or creamy sauces, without the need for high-carb ingredients.

Creamy Garlic Spinach Sauce: A Flavor Explosion

The creamy garlic spinach sauce that accompanies this dish is what truly sets it apart from other pork chop recipes. Garlic, butter, and cream come together to create a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pork chops in the most indulgent way possible. The addition of spinach not only adds a burst of green color but also balances the richness of the sauce with its fresh, slightly bitter flavor.

Garlic is the star of the sauce, providing a deep, aromatic flavor that enhances the pork without overpowering it. The butter adds richness and a smooth texture, while the cream creates a luxurious, silky base. Together, these ingredients form a harmonious sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender pork chops.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, this recipe is a game-changer. The creamy garlic spinach sauce is free of high-carb ingredients like flour or starch, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to limit their carb intake. Additionally, the dish is packed with healthy fats from the butter and cream, making it a keto-friendly option that won’t derail your dietary goals.

The addition of spinach also contributes a healthy dose of fiber and micronutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, and iron, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious. The low-carb nature of the dish means you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without feeling heavy or bloated afterward.

The Importance of Seasoning

While the creamy garlic spinach sauce provides the bulk of the flavor in this dish, the seasoning on the pork chops is equally important. A simple blend of salt, black pepper, and paprika creates a flavorful crust on the pork chops, enhancing their natural taste and giving them a slight smoky kick. Paprika adds a subtle warmth, while salt and pepper bring balance to the dish, allowing the rich sauce to shine without overpowering the pork.

For additional depth of flavor, the use of Italian seasoning in the sauce ties the dish together beautifully. This seasoning blend, typically consisting of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, complements the garlic and spinach, infusing the sauce with aromatic herbs that bring a Mediterranean flair to the meal.

How to Make This Dish Your Own

One of the best things about this Boneless Pork Chops in Creamy Garlic Spinach Sauce recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your personal tastes or dietary preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add more crushed red chili flakes to the sauce, or even a dash of cayenne pepper. For a more savory twist, consider adding some freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, which will melt into the cream and provide extra richness and depth of flavor.

If you’re not a fan of spinach, you can substitute it with other leafy greens, such as kale, arugula, or Swiss chard. These greens offer a similar texture and bitterness that will still balance the richness of the sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to give the dish a unique twist.

For a low-carb side, serve this dish with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or roasted vegetables to keep it keto-friendly. For those not following a strict keto diet, mashed potatoes or a side of roasted potatoes would pair beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

One of the main appeals of this recipe is its speed. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can prepare a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The fact that it’s a one-pan dish makes it even more convenient, as there’s minimal cleanup afterward. This is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful and satisfying without a lot of fuss.

The pork chops cook quickly, and the sauce comes together in the same skillet, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. The spinach wilts into the sauce, creating a beautiful contrast between the creamy sauce and the tender greens. The end result is a dish that’s packed with flavor and texture, all in one convenient pan.

Conclusion: A Satisfying, Flavorful Meal

Boneless Pork Chops in Creamy Garlic Spinach Sauce is the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and hearty flavors. The juicy, perfectly seared pork chops are complemented by a rich and velvety garlic spinach sauce that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. Whether you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, or simply looking for a quick and easy dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Its versatility allows for plenty of adaptations to suit your personal tastes, while the minimal ingredients and easy preparation make it a great option for weeknight meals. Whether paired with a simple green salad or served with a more elaborate side, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

 

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