Tomato Basil Pork Chops
Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Description
Elevate your dinner routine with these Italian-inspired Tomato Basil Pork Chops that are the epitome of succulent, tender, and flavorful. Each chop is pan-seared to perfection and simmered in a savory tomato basil sauce, making it a mouthwatering meal that pairs beautifully with a crisp tossed salad and warm, buttery garlic bread. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, these pork chops are sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter 🧈
- 1 clove garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 can (8 ounces) whole tomatoes 🍅
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped 🌿
- 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 🌶️
- 1/2 cup water 💧
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch 🌽
- 1 onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 1 green pepper, chopped 🌶️
Instructions
-
Prepare Your Skillet
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble. The rich aroma of melted butter will soon fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal. 🧈 -
Infuse Flavor with Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté it for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. This step will infuse your dish with a delightful garlic flavor that complements the pork chops beautifully. 🧄 -
Sear the Pork Chops
Place the pork chops into the skillet and brown them on both sides. The chops should develop a golden-brown crust, which will lock in their juices and create a mouthwatering base for the sauce. 🥩 -
Create the Sauce
Once the pork chops are browned, add the whole tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine everything, allowing the tomatoes to break down and mingle with the other ingredients. 🍅🌿 -
Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low-medium, cover the skillet, and let the pork chops cook gently in the tomato mixture. Allow them to simmer for approximately 50 minutes, or until the chops are cooked through and tender. The long, slow cook will ensure the meat is juicy and infused with the flavors of the sauce. ⏱️ -
Keep Chops Warm
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a warm plate or dish, covering them lightly with foil to keep them warm while you finish the sauce. 🍽️ -
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the water and cornstarch until smooth, creating a slurry. Pour this mixture into the hot cooking liquid in the skillet. Stir well to combine and allow the sauce to thicken. 🍲 -
Add Vegetables
Add the finely chopped onion and green pepper to the skillet. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender and the sauce has reached your desired consistency. The vegetables will add a delightful crunch and additional flavor to the sauce. 🧅🌶️ -
Serve and Garnish
Place the pork chops back onto the serving platter or dinner plates, then pour the luscious tomato basil sauce over the top. If desired, garnish with extra fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately, alongside a fresh salad and garlic bread for a truly impressive dinner experience. 🍽️🌿
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 386.4
- Fat: 23.1 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9.1 grams
- Cholesterol: 110.2 milligrams
- Sodium: 513.6 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 12.3 grams
- Fiber: 2.4 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Protein: 31.7 grams
Enjoy this delicious Tomato Basil Pork Chops recipe that brings together the best of Italian flavors in a simple, satisfying dish. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe ensures a flavorful meal that’s sure to please. 🍽️🇮🇹