Dutch Oven Pork Chops

Pork chops are a comforting and satisfying meal, but this recipe goes next level by rubbing the chops in herbs to maximize flavor. Even better, these pork chops are cooked in a Dutch oven with broth and carrots, gently braising in a low oven until they are done.

This means that you can use thick or thin bone-in pork loin chops and adjust the cooking time to fit your meat—an ideal cooking style that ensures moist pork chops every time.

Ingredients for Dutch Oven Pork Chops

• Herbs and seasonings: The pork chops are rubbed in parsley flakes, paprika, rubbed sage, thyme, ground mustard, salt, pepper and oregano for extra savory flavor.
• Pork chops: Bone-in pork loin chops have the most flavor; we recommend choosing chops cut about 1/2 inch thick.
• Onions and garlic: Thinly sliced onions and garlic give the chops an aromatic base.
• Carrots: Cut carrots into chunks and braise alongside the pork chops. They will get tender and absorb some of the broth and meat juices.
• Chicken broth: The recipe calls for chicken broth, but you can also use vegetable or mushroom broth. It adds enough liquid to braise the meat inside the Dutch oven.
• Garnish and accompaniments: If you want, serve alongside mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of chopped fresh thyme.

Directions

Step 1: Season and brown pork chops

Combine seasonings and rub all over the pork chops. Heat oil in an oven-safe Dutch oven over medium-high. Cook the chops for two to three minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chops and add the onions and garlic. Saute for two minutes or until aromatic and beginning to soften. Add the carrots and broth and bring to a boil.

Step 2: Braise meat and vegetables until tender.

Add the pork chops to the Dutch oven. Cover and bake at 325°F for 1-1/2 to 2 hours until the meat and vegetables are tender. You can remove the meat and vegetables and reduce the pan sauce to thicken. Serve with mashed potatoes (or see other suggestions below) and a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves.

Recipe Variations

• Add extra delicious ingredients: This recipe lends itself to any additions that can be either sauteed with the onions and garlic, such as celery or mushrooms, or braised with the carrots, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes or winter squash.
• Don’t let that fond go to waste: Fond is the French word for all of the delicious caramelized bits left after cooking meat and aromatics, and you can capture this flavor in a process called deglazing. After the onions and garlic have started to soften, add 1/2 cup of wine (red or white will work) to the pan and bring to a simmer. Use a spoon to scrape up all of the browned bits. After the wine has reduced and no longer smells boozy, add the broth and carrots and continue as directed.
• Spice it up: You can use your favorite seasoning blend to flavor the pork chops. Try a barbecue rub or a Cajun seasoning.

How to Store Dutch Oven Pork Chops

Cover and store leftover pork chops in the refrigerator for three to four days.

Can you freeze Dutch oven pork chops?

After cooking, allow the pork and vegetables to cool, then move to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to six months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat gently in a covered skillet, adding a bit more broth for moisture. Heat until the chops register 145° in the middle.

Tips for Dutch Oven Pork Chops

How do I cook moist, delicious pork chops?

Patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel will help them brown better, as will not crowding them in the pan. Check pork with an instant-read thermometer to see when it is done, right at 145°.

What should I look for in a Dutch oven?

Dutch ovens are heavy, lidded cooking vessels made from cast iron, enameled cast iron, aluminum or ceramic. But cast iron or enameled cast iron are the most popular and durable. Dutch ovens can be expensive, but a well-made one will last a lifetime, and may even be handed down for generations. Here is a list of our favorites.

What can I serve with Dutch oven pork chops?

Mashed potatoes are a favorite, but these slow-cooker baked potatoes can cook at the same time as the pork chops. These soft, pillowy dinner rolls can sop up all of the delicious sauce. Or serve alongside a fresh, crisp side like this apple-feta salad.