Effortless Elegance: Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Gravy

Craving a comforting, home-cooked meal but short on time? Look no further! This Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Gravy recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy pork chops smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy – all made in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. The Instant Pot locks in the moisture and creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, but elegant enough to serve to guests. Get ready to impress with this easy and delicious dish!

## Why Use an Instant Pot for Pork Chops?

The Instant Pot, or any electric pressure cooker, is a game-changer for cooking pork chops. Here’s why:

* **Speed:** Traditional pan-frying or baking can take a considerable amount of time, especially for thicker pork chops. The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time.
* **Tenderness:** The pressure cooking process tenderizes the pork chops, resulting in a much more succulent and juicy texture compared to other methods. This is especially beneficial for leaner cuts of pork that can easily dry out.
* **Flavor:** The Instant Pot seals in the flavors, creating a richer and more intense gravy.
* **One-Pot Meal:** This recipe allows you to cook both the pork chops and the gravy in the same pot, minimizing cleanup.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

* **Pork Chops:** 4-6 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick). Boneless pork chops cook slightly faster. Center-cut chops are preferred for even cooking.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons, for searing the pork chops.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste, for seasoning the pork chops.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1 teaspoon, for added flavor.
* **Onion Powder:** 1 teaspoon, complements the garlic powder.
* **Dried Thyme:** 1/2 teaspoon, adds an earthy aroma.
* **Beef Broth:** 1 1/2 cups, provides a rich base for the gravy. Chicken broth can be substituted in a pinch.
* **Worcestershire Sauce:** 1 tablespoon, enhances the savory flavor.
* **Cornstarch:** 2 tablespoons, for thickening the gravy.
* **Cold Water:** 2 tablespoons, to make a cornstarch slurry.
* **Heavy Cream or Milk:** 1/2 cup, for adding creaminess to the gravy. Milk will result in a slightly thinner gravy.
* **Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard:** adds tang to gravy
* **Optional: Fresh Parsley, chopped:** For garnish.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfect Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Gravy:

**Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops**

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Excess moisture will prevent browning.
2. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Mix well.
3. Generously season both sides of the pork chops with the spice mixture. Ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed.

**Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops**

1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the ‘Sauté’ function. Allow the pot to heat up.
2. Add olive oil to the Instant Pot. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the pot in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this will lower the temperature and prevent proper searing. If necessary, sear the pork chops in batches.
3. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned. Searing adds flavor and color to the final dish. Remove the pork chops from the Instant Pot and set them aside.

**Step 3: Deglaze the Pot**

1. Pour beef broth into the Instant Pot. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enhance the gravy.
2. Add Worcestershire sauce to the broth. Stir to combine.

**Step 4: Pressure Cook the Pork Chops**

1. Return the seared pork chops to the Instant Pot, arranging them in a single layer in the broth.
2. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure that the steam release valve is in the ‘Sealing’ position.
3. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and set the cooking time. For boneless pork chops, cook for 8-10 minutes. For bone-in pork chops, cook for 10-12 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the pork chops.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully release any remaining pressure manually by moving the steam release valve to the ‘Venting’ position.

**Step 5: Make the Gravy**

1. Carefully remove the pork chops from the Instant Pot and set them aside on a plate. Cover them with foil to keep them warm.
2. Select the ‘Sauté’ function on the Instant Pot again.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This mixture is called a cornstarch slurry and will be used to thicken the gravy.
4. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the broth in the Instant Pot, stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the gravy begins to thicken. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Reduce the ‘Sauté’ function to ‘Low’ or ‘Keep Warm’.
6. Stir in heavy cream (or milk) and dijon mustard (optional) into the gravy. Heat through gently, avoiding boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to taste.

**Step 6: Serve**

1. Return the pork chops to the Instant Pot and spoon the gravy over them.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
3. Serve the Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Gravy immediately. They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or your favorite steamed vegetables.

## Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Pork Chops

* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked pork chops can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remember that the pork chops will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the Instant Pot.
* **Searing is Key:** Searing the pork chops before pressure cooking adds flavor and color to the dish. Don’t skip this step!
* **Adjust Cooking Time:** The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness and type of pork chops. Use the recommended cooking times as a guideline and adjust as needed.
* **Natural Pressure Release:** Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes helps to prevent the pork chops from drying out.
* **Thicken the Gravy to Your Liking:** If you prefer a thicker gravy, use more cornstarch. If you prefer a thinner gravy, use less cornstarch or add more broth.
* **Add Flavor:** Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to customize the flavor of the pork chops and gravy. Smoked paprika, onion soup mix, or Italian seasoning can be added for a unique twist.
* **Dairy-Free Option:** Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of heavy cream or milk for a dairy-free version.
* **Bone-in vs. Boneless:** Both bone-in and boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful, while boneless pork chops cook slightly faster.

## Serving Suggestions

This Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:

* **Mashed Potatoes:** A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious gravy.
* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or wild rice are all excellent choices.
* **Noodles:** Egg noodles, pasta, or even zucchini noodles work well.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Broccoli, green beans, carrots, or asparagus are all healthy and delicious options.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or root vegetables add a touch of sweetness.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pork chops and gravy.
* **Crusty Bread:** Perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Mushroom Gravy:** Add sliced mushrooms to the Instant Pot while sautéing the pork chops for a delicious mushroom gravy.
* **Onion Soup Mix:** Substitute 1 packet of onion soup mix for the garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme for a flavorful twist.
* **Cream of Mushroom Soup:** Add a can of cream of mushroom soup to the Instant Pot after pressure cooking for an extra creamy gravy.
* **Different Cuts of Pork:** While pork chops are the most common choice, you can also use pork tenderloin or pork loin in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Spicy Pork Chops:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the spice mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Honey Garlic Pork Chops:** Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the Instant Pot after pressure cooking for a sweet and savory honey garlic gravy.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

This recipe can be partially prepared ahead of time:

* **Season the pork chops:** Season the pork chops with the spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
* **Chop the vegetables:** Chop any vegetables you plan to serve as a side dish ahead of time.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the pork chops and gravy in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the gravy is too thick.
* **Freeze:** While not ideal (the texture of the gravy may change), you can freeze leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Recipe Card

**Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Gravy**

**Prep Time:** 10 minutes

**Cook Time:** 30 minutes

**Total Time:** 40 minutes

**Servings:** 4-6

**Ingredients:**

* 4-6 boneless or bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 1/2 cups beef broth
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons cold water
* 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
* Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
* Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Pat the pork chops dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
2. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the ‘Sauté’ function. Add olive oil and sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the Instant Pot.
3. Pour beef broth into the Instant Pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce.
4. Return the pork chops to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the steam release valve to ‘Sealing’.
5. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and cook for 8-12 minutes (adjust based on the thickness and type of pork chops). Allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release, then manually release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the pork chops and set aside. Select the ‘Sauté’ function again.
7. Whisk together cornstarch and cold water. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the broth, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.
8. Reduce the ‘Sauté’ function to ‘Low’ or ‘Keep Warm’. Stir in heavy cream (or milk) and dijon mustard (optional). Season to taste.
9. Return the pork chops to the Instant Pot and spoon the gravy over them. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
10. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious and easy Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Gravy!