Transform your dinner routine with the ultimate comfort food classic: Instant Pot Smothered Pork Chops and Potatoes. This recipe delivers tender, juicy pork chops bathed in a rich, savory gravy, perfectly complemented by soft, flavorful potatoes—all cooked effortlessly in a single pot. It’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal without the extensive cleanup.

Instant Pot Smothered Pork Chops and Potatoes: A Complete One-Pot Meal

Say goodbye to juggling multiple pots and pans. This Instant Pot Smothered Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is designed for maximum flavor and minimal fuss. Imagine succulent pork chops, fall-apart tender, coated in a luscious, deeply flavored gravy, alongside perfectly steamed baby potatoes. The electric pressure cooker works its magic, ensuring every component is cooked to perfection, infusing the entire dish with a harmonious blend of savory goodness. It’s truly a meal that satisfies the soul, reminiscent of grandma’s Sunday dinner but ready in a fraction of the time.

Why the Instant Pot is Perfect for Smothered Pork Chops

The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, and this recipe perfectly showcases its incredible versatility. Traditional smothered pork chops often require searing in one pan, slow cooking in another, and boiling potatoes separately. With the Instant Pot, all these steps are streamlined into one appliance. The high-pressure environment tenderizes the pork chops incredibly quickly, locking in moisture and flavor that would take hours in a slow cooker. Simultaneously, the potatoes cook gently above the chops in a steamer basket, absorbing the aromatic steam from the rich gravy below.

This method not only saves time but also concentrates flavors, creating a more cohesive and deeply satisfying dish. The gravy base benefits from the intense pressure, developing a complexity that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Plus, the minimal cleanup is a game-changer for busy households, making this comforting meal a realistic option even on the busiest of weeknights.

Choosing Your Pork Chops and Potatoes for Success

Selecting the Best Pork Chops

For truly exceptional smothered pork chops, the cut matters. We recommend using thick-cut, bone-in pork chops. The bone adds an extra layer of flavor to the gravy and helps keep the meat incredibly moist during pressure cooking. Aim for chops that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. While boneless chops can be used, they tend to cook faster and might dry out if overcooked, so you may need to adjust cooking time slightly (often reducing by 1-2 minutes). For optimal results, ensure your pork chops are at least room temperature before placing them in the Instant Pot, which helps them cook more evenly.

The Perfect Potatoes for Pressure Cooking

Baby potatoes are the star here, and for good reason! Their small size means they cook through quickly and evenly without becoming mushy. They also hold their shape beautifully under pressure, offering a delightful texture alongside the tender pork. You can use red, yellow, or a mix of baby potatoes. If baby potatoes aren’t available, small Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into uniform 1.5-inch pieces, would be suitable alternatives. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can break down too much during pressure cooking and alter the texture of your dish.

The Rich & Flavorful Gravy: A Culinary Masterpiece

The gravy is undeniably the heart of any smothered dish, and this recipe delivers a truly exceptional one. It starts with a robust foundation of low-sodium beef broth and water, ensuring a savory depth without excessive salt. The magic happens with the addition of cream of mushroom soup, which contributes a creamy texture and umami richness. For an extra layer of savory goodness, a packet of dry onion soup mix is incorporated, bringing a complex blend of herbs and spices. A touch of A1 steak sauce adds a tangy, slightly smoky note that perfectly complements the pork.

After pressure cooking, the gravy is further enriched with a swirl of sour cream, providing a luxurious tang and velvety smoothness. Finally, a cornstarch slurry thickens it to that perfect, spoon-coating consistency. This combination of ingredients creates a gravy that is not just a topping but an integral part of the meal, tying all the flavors together beautifully and making every bite a delight.

Essential Ingredients for Your One-Pot Masterpiece

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to a successful meal. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable Instant Pot Smothered Pork Chops:

• 1.5 pounds baby potatoes
• 1 small onion, diced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 teaspoons garlic powder, divided use
• 1 (14 ounce) can low-sodium beef broth
• ½ cup water
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup for a milder flavor)
• 1 packet dry onion soup mix
• 2 Tablespoons A1 steak sauce
• 4 thick-cut, bone-in pork chops
• 8 ounce container sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• For the gravy thickener:
  • 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 Tablespoons cold water

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Master Instant Pot Smothered Pork Chops

Preparing this dish is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect one-pot meal:

Preparation is Key

Begin by preparing your vegetables. Slice the baby potatoes in half to ensure even cooking and dice the small onion. These will form the flavorful base for your potatoes.

Next, place the halved potatoes and diced onion into a steamer basket. Make sure the steamer basket is compatible with your 6-quart Instant Pot and fits snugly inside the inner pot.

Generously season the potatoes and onions with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Gently toss them to ensure an even coating of seasoning. This step enhances the flavor of the potatoes as they steam.

Crafting the Savory Gravy Base

In the inner pot of your 6-quart Instant Pot, combine the beef broth, ½ cup of water, cream of mushroom soup, dry onion soup mix, and A1 steak sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until thoroughly combined and smooth. This forms the incredibly flavorful gravy that will tenderize your pork chops.

Seasoning and Layering

Season both sides of your thick-cut pork chops with the remaining 2 teaspoons of garlic powder and black pepper. Place these seasoned pork chops directly into the gravy mixture in the Instant Pot. Ensure they are submerged as much as possible to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Carefully place the steamer basket, filled with the seasoned potatoes and onions, on top of the pork chops in the Instant Pot. This layering technique allows both components to cook simultaneously and efficiently.

Pressure Cooking Perfection

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the pressure release valve to the “sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the cooking time for 10 minutes on high pressure. It’s crucial not to overcook the pork chops, as this can make them tough. Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to “venting.” Stand back from the steam.

Finishing Touches: The Creamy Gravy

Once the pressure has released, carefully remove the steamer basket with the potatoes and set it aside. Then, transfer the cooked pork chops to a separate plate and set them aside as well. Now it’s time to perfect the gravy. Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. If desired, stir in the sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess and tang. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually add this slurry to the simmering gravy in the Instant Pot, whisking constantly. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, stirring until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy!

To serve, place a tender pork chop on a plate alongside the perfectly cooked baby potatoes. Ladle generous amounts of the rich, thickened gravy over the pork chops and a spoonful over the potatoes. This hearty and flavorful meal is ready to be savored!

Pro Tips for Perfect Smothered Pork Chops

• Don’t Overcook: Pork chops can become tough if overcooked. The 10-minute high-pressure cooking time is designed for thick, bone-in chops. If using thinner or boneless chops, reduce the time to 8-9 minutes.
• Quick Release is Key: For pork, a quick pressure release is generally preferred to prevent the meat from continuing to cook in the residual heat, which can lead to dryness.
• Searing for Extra Flavor (Optional): While this is a one-pot recipe focusing on ease, you can brown the pork chops on the “Sauté” setting before adding the liquid for an extra layer of caramelized flavor. Remove them after searing, then proceed with the recipe, adding them back before placing the steamer basket.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your gravy after thickening and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Different brands of broth and soup mixes can vary in sodium content.
• Cornstarch Slurry: Ensure your cornstarch is mixed with cold water before adding it to the hot gravy to prevent lumps. Add it gradually and whisk continuously.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Customizing Your Meal

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Soup Swap: If cream of mushroom isn’t your preference, try cream of chicken soup for a milder flavor, or even cream of celery for a different savory note.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots to the steamer basket with the potatoes and onions for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the gravy can add a subtle warmth.
• Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs added to the gravy during pressure cooking will infuse it with earthy aromas.

What to Serve With It

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, a few simple sides can elevate it further:

• Green Beans: Steamed or roasted green beans provide a fresh, crisp contrast.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that amazing gravy.
• Simple Salad: A light, fresh green salad can balance the richness of the dish.
• Cornbread: A classic pairing for smothered dishes, cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen pork chops?

While fresh pork chops are recommended for best results, you can use frozen bone-in pork chops. You will need to increase the pressure cooking time. For frozen chops, increase the high-pressure cook time to 15-18 minutes, followed by a quick release. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving.

What if I don’t have a steamer basket?

If you don’t have a steamer basket, you can place the potatoes directly into the liquid around the pork chops. However, they might become slightly softer and more incorporated into the gravy. Alternatively, you can cook the potatoes separately and add them at the end. An Instant Pot trivet can also be used, with potatoes placed on top, but some may fall into the liquid.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Instant Pot Smothered Pork Chops and Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the gravy has thickened too much upon cooling, you can thin it with a splash of broth or water when reheating.

Conclusion: A Delicious Dinner in No Time

This Instant Pot Smothered Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe truly embodies the essence of comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The brilliance of the Instant Pot allows you to achieve that slow-cooked taste in a fraction of the time, making it perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just starting, this recipe is a testament to how easy and delicious one-pot cooking can be. Serve it up and watch it become an instant family favorite!

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