Creamy Bacon Mushroom Pork Chops
When it comes to crafting a wholesome and indulgent dinner, few dishes can compete with the savory combination of pork chops, bacon, and a creamy mushroom sauce. This recipe not only hits all the flavor notes but also fits perfectly within a low-carb or keto-friendly lifestyle. With just 5 net carbs per serving, this dish offers a guilt-free way to enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step to make these mouthwatering bacon mushroom pork chops, including tips on choosing the right ingredients and perfecting the cooking technique. You’ll also find suggestions for complementary sides like roasted vegetables or fresh salads to round out your meal.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and bacon makes for an indulgent sauce that pairs beautifully with tender pork chops.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with low-carb sides such as roasted broccoli, mashed cauliflower, or a crisp green salad.
- Simple Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or an effortless weekend dinner.
- High-Quality Ingredients: By using premium cuts of meat and fresh mushrooms, you can elevate the taste and ensure every bite is unforgettable.
Choosing the Best Ingredients
- Pork Chops: Opt for boneless, thick-cut pork chops. The thickness ensures the meat remains juicy during cooking.
- Bacon: Quality bacon is key for flavor. Choose a brand that uses minimal processing and natural ingredients.
- Mushrooms: Pre-sliced mushrooms save prep time, but whole mushrooms can also be sliced fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: This ingredient forms the base of the sauce, giving it a velvety texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded Parmesan melts better and intensifies the creaminess of the sauce.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, salt, and pepper are simple yet effective seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the pork and sauce.
Preparation Tips
Tenderizing the Pork Chops
Before cooking, place the pork chops between two layers of plastic wrap and use a meat tenderizer to gently pound them to an even thickness. This step ensures uniform cooking and enhances tenderness.
Cooking Bacon to Perfection
Cut the bacon into small pieces before cooking. Fry it in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Removing the bacon and leaving the grease in the pan allows you to utilize the rendered fat for cooking the pork chops and sauce, adding depth to the dish.
Sautéing Mushrooms for Maximum Flavor
Once the pork chops are cooked, use the same pan to sauté minced garlic and mushrooms. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and tender. This step enhances their natural umami flavor.
Creating the Perfect Cream Sauce
Add heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese to the pan. Stir the mixture until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Incorporate the cooked bacon back into the sauce for a rich, cohesive flavor.
Recipe for Creamy Bacon Mushroom Pork Chops:
Ingredients:
- 1 package of bacon, cut into small pieces
- 4 boneless thick-cut pork chops
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 8 ounces pre-sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 ounce shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon
- Cut bacon into small pieces and cook in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Prepare the Pork Chops
- Place pork chops between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them with a meat tenderizer until evenly flat.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the pork chops to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook over medium-high heat until the internal temperature reaches 145°F, flipping to brown both sides.
- Remove pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
- Drain excess grease from the skillet, leaving a small amount for sautéing.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and cook for 8-10 minutes until browned and tender.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Pour heavy whipping cream into the skillet and stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
- Add the cooked bacon to the sauce and mix well. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the sauce to simmer over medium heat until it thickens.
- Assemble the Dish
- Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the creamy bacon mushroom sauce over the top.
- Serve immediately with your choice of low-carb sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 353
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
With this recipe, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy bacon mushroom sauce adds a luxurious touch to the tender pork chops, making this dish a family favorite. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a flavorful dinner idea, these bacon mushroom pork chops are sure to impress.