There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-cooked meal that combines simplicity and flavor. Pork chops and rice with cream of mushroom soup is the ultimate cozy dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, yet hearty enough to make it feel like a special occasion. This dish is rich, creamy, savory, and just the right balance of textures and flavors. It’s also incredibly easy to make, so you don’t have to be a seasoned chef to pull it off. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this meal is sure to satisfy and bring people to the table.
This recipe brings together the tender juiciness of pork chops, the creaminess of mushroom soup, and the comforting heartiness of rice. And the best part? It’s all made in one pan, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. So, if you’re looking to try something that feels like a warm embrace in a dish, keep reading to find out how to make this simple but delicious meal.
Pork Chops And Rice Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe
This dish may have humble ingredients, but it’s packed with flavor. The combination of pork chops, rice, and cream of mushroom soup creates a luscious, creamy texture that envelops the pork in rich, umami goodness. The beauty of this dish lies in how it’s cooked: everything comes together in one pan, so you get layers of flavors that develop as the pork sears, the rice cooks, and the soup melds together. It’s comfort food in its purest form.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start cooking, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious meal:
- Pork Chops – Bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference. The fat in the pork chops adds to the richness of the dish.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup – The key to this dish’s creamy base and umami flavor. You can use a low-sodium version if you’re looking to cut down on salt, but the regular variety adds richness and depth.
- White Rice – Long-grain rice works best for this recipe as it cooks up fluffy and doesn’t get too sticky. You’ll want a rice that will absorb the flavors from the pork and soup.
- Onion – For added flavor and a hint of sweetness. Yellow or white onions are perfect for this dish.
- Garlic – Minced or chopped. Fresh garlic adds a great depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Chicken Broth – For added moisture and richness. It complements the soup and helps the rice cook through.
- Salt and Pepper – To season the pork chops and rice to taste.
- Olive Oil – For searing the pork chops. You can use butter if you prefer a richer taste.
- Thyme or Parsley – Fresh or dried herbs to garnish the dish and add a pop of color and flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Don’t worry-it’s super straightforward.
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Prep The Pork Chops
- Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme or your favorite seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Sear The Pork Chops
- Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step is key to locking in the flavors.
- Once seared, remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the pork chops.
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Cook The Rice
- Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir it around for about 1-2 minutes to toast it slightly. This adds a nice nutty flavor to the rice.
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Add The Soup And Broth
- Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth. Stir to combine, making sure the rice is well-coated in the creamy mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Return The Pork Chops To The Pan
- Nestle the seared pork chops back into the pan, placing them on top of the rice mixture.
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Simmer And Cook
- Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the pork chops are tender.
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Final Touches
- Once everything is cooked through, sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serve the pork chops alongside the creamy rice and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients will help you elevate the dish and tailor it to your preferences. Here’s a closer look:
- Pork Chops: The pork chop is the star of this dish. Bone-in chops are often preferred because they tend to stay juicier, but boneless can work just as well. The fat in the chops renders out during cooking, adding richness to the dish.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This classic canned soup is an absolute essential in many comfort food dishes. It provides a velvety, rich base, and the mushrooms add an earthy umami flavor that complements the pork beautifully.
- Rice: Rice acts as the perfect backdrop for the pork and soup to mingle. It absorbs the creamy, savory sauce and becomes a rich, flavorful part of the dish rather than just a filler.
- Onions and Garlic: The onions and garlic work together to create a savory foundation that amplifies the flavors of the pork and mushrooms. The sweetness of the onions balances the earthy mushrooms and creamy broth.
Expert Tips
- Searing the Pork Chops: Don’t skip the searing step! It creates a nice crust on the chops, which enhances both the texture and flavor.
- Rice Cooking Tip: If you want to ensure your rice turns out perfectly, avoid stirring it once the soup and broth are added. Stirring can break the rice and create a mushy texture.
- Use Bone-In Pork Chops: While boneless works, bone-in pork chops retain moisture better and make the dish more flavorful. They also impart a richer taste to the rice.
- Customize Your Soup: You can swap the cream of mushroom soup for other varieties, like cream of chicken or cream of celery, to change up the flavor profile.
Recipe Variations
While this pork chops and rice recipe is simple and comforting on its own, here are some variations you can try if you want to mix things up:
- Add Vegetables: Throw in some diced carrots, peas, or green beans during the rice-cooking step for extra nutrients and color.
- Spicy Kick: Add a little heat with some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This works especially well if you like a bit of spice to balance out the creaminess.
- Cheesy Version: Stir in some shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese toward the end of cooking for a cheesy, gooey twist.
- Swap the Pork: Instead of pork chops, try using chicken thighs or bone-in chicken breasts for a different take on this dish.
Final Words
This pork chops and rice with cream of mushroom soup recipe is more than just a meal-it’s an experience. It’s a dish that can be made quickly for a weeknight dinner, yet it tastes like something you’d savor on a Sunday afternoon. The rich combination of tender pork, creamy soup, and fluffy rice is a celebration of comfort food in all its glory.
FAQs
What Is The Best Cut Of Pork Chops To Use For This Recipe?
The best cuts of pork chops to use for this recipe are bone-in or boneless center-cut chops. Bone-in pork chops provide more flavor, while boneless chops are easier to cut and serve.
Can I Use Instant Rice In This Recipe Instead Of Regular Rice?
Yes, you can use instant rice, but it may alter the cooking time and texture. If you opt for instant rice, be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time as instant rice cooks faster than regular rice.
How Long Should I Cook The Pork Chops In This Dish?
Pork chops should be cooked for about 25 to 30 minutes in the oven at 350°F (175°C). However, if the chops are particularly thick, you may need to cook them for a few additional minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients, including the pork chops, rice, and cream of mushroom soup, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender.
Do I Need To Brown The Pork Chops Before Baking Them?
Browning the pork chops before baking them is optional. It adds extra flavor and helps seal in moisture, but it is not necessary if you are short on time.
Can I Use Other Types Of Soup Besides Cream Of Mushroom?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with other cream soups such as cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a cheese soup, depending on your flavor preference.
Is It Necessary To Use Canned Cream Of Mushroom Soup, Or Can I Make My Own?
You can definitely make your own homemade cream of mushroom soup. To do so, sauté mushrooms in butter, add flour to make a roux, and gradually stir in milk or cream, seasoning to taste.
How Do I Ensure The Rice Cooks Properly In The Recipe?
To ensure the rice cooks properly, be sure to use the correct amount of liquid as specified in the recipe. The cream of mushroom soup provides moisture, but you may also need additional water or broth to cook the rice fully.
Can I Add Vegetables To This Recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to enhance the dish. You can add peas, carrots, or green beans, either in the rice mixture or as a side dish. Just ensure that the vegetables are pre-cooked or add them at the right time to avoid overcooking.
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops For This Recipe?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used for this recipe. They typically offer more flavor and tenderness than boneless pork chops, though you may need to adjust cooking times slightly depending on their thickness.