If you’re craving a dinner that combines savory, sweet, and creamy all in one plate, these maple bacon pork chops with dijon mustard cream sauce will hit the spot. This recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your pork chops with a luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make this dish on the stovetop, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the fuss. Once you try these maple bacon pork chops, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich combination of smoky bacon and sweet maple syrup flavors.
- Creamy dijon mustard sauce adds a tangy, luxurious touch.
- Quick stovetop cooking saves time and locks in juices.
- Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
- Perfectly balanced flavors that appeal to all taste buds.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for tender pork chops glazed with maple and crispy bacon, finished with a silky dijon mustard cream sauce.
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick (approx. 6 ounces each)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
How to Make Maple Bacon Pork Chops with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce – aryarecipes.com
- Start by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and thyme on both sides.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat and increase heat to medium-high. Sear the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 145°F). Remove chops and set aside on a warm plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
- Stir in maple syrup, heavy cream, and dijon mustard until smooth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Return bacon and pork chops to the skillet, spooning sauce over the chops. Cook together for another 2 minutes to combine flavors and warm through.
- Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or thyme if desired. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Pat pork chops dry before seasoning to ensure a nice sear.
- Use bone-in chops for juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing; cook in batches if needed.
- Simmer the sauce gently to avoid curdling the cream.
- Let pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover maple bacon pork chops and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the pork chops and sauce in a freezer-safe container and keep for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring the sauce occasionally to keep it smooth and creamy. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the pork.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but bone-in tends to stay more tender and flavorful. Adjust cooking time slightly as boneless chops cook faster.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a teaspoon of flour to thicken, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer and check your dijon mustard ingredients. The sauce might have a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the pork chops ahead and store separately from the sauce. Reheat gently and combine just before serving to keep the texture and flavors fresh.
