Instant Pot Creamy Pork Chops Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pounds bone-in pork chops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
• 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Directions

1. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Season both sides of the pork chops with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Once the skillet is hot, sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Set them aside.
3. In a multi-functional cooker (such as an Instant Pot), add 1 cup of chicken broth, diced onion, and sliced mushrooms.
4. Place the seared pork chops on top of the onion and mushrooms. Pour the can of cream of mushroom soup over the chops.
5. Close and lock the lid of the cooker. Select the high-pressure cooking setting according to the manufacturer's instructions, and set the timer for 15 minutes.
6. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build, then release pressure using the natural-release method for at least 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully use the quick-release method to release any remaining pressure, which should take about 5 minutes.
7. Once the lid is unlocked and removed, take out the pork chops and set them aside to keep warm.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth until smooth. Add this mixture to the soupy liquid in the cooker.
9. Set the cooker to the saut function and bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking occasionally. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
10. Serve the pork chops with a generous portion of the mushroom and onion sauce on top.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 196
• Total Fat: 10g (13% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (12% DV)
• Cholesterol: 8mg (3% DV)
• Sodium: 928mg (40% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 22g (8% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 7g (14% DV)
• Vitamin C: 6mg (7% DV)
• Calcium: 123mg (9% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
• Potassium: 625mg (13% DV)

The Story Behind Instant Pot Creamy Pork Chops

Instant Pot Creamy Pork Chops are a modern adaptation of classic comfort food, blending convenience with rich, homey flavors. Pork chops have been a staple of American cuisine for centuries, particularly in the South and Midwest, where family dinners often feature hearty meat-and-gravy dishes. The introduction of the Instant Pot revolutionized the preparation of such meals, allowing cooks to achieve tender, flavorful pork chops in a fraction of the traditional cooking time.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

This dish carries subtle regional nuances. In Southern cuisine, its common to enrich the sauce with heavy cream, onions, and mushrooms, while Midwestern versions may favor a simpler gravy made from broth and seasoning. Some variations incorporate mustard or Worcestershire sauce for a tangy twist, reflecting local taste preferences. Despite these differences, the key characteristic remains the creamy sauce that envelops the seared pork chops, giving the dish its signature comfort-food appeal.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While many recipes feature pork chops in a sauce, the Instant Pot version stands out for its speed and consistency. Unlike baked or skillet-cooked chops, which may dry out or require careful attention, the pressure-cooking method ensures the meat stays juicy while the sauce develops a velvety texture. Compared to other creamy pork dishes, such as smothered chops or casserole-style recipes, this version is lighter, with a focus on mushroom and onion flavors without heavy layering or long oven cooking times.

Typical Serving Occasions

These pork chops are versatile and commonly served at family dinners, weeknight meals, or casual gatherings. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles, as the creamy mushroom sauce doubles as a flavorful gravy. Bread or dinner rolls are often added to help soak up the sauce. Their ease of preparation makes them a popular choice for busy households seeking a hearty, satisfying meal without extensive cooking effort.

Interesting Facts

• The use of canned cream of mushroom soup is a distinctly American shortcut, popularized in the 20th century as convenience foods became widespread.
• Instant Pot technology allows for natural pressure release, which locks in juices and ensures the pork chops remain tendera method inspired by traditional slow-cooking techniques.
• Many cooks experiment by adding herbs like thyme or sage to personalize the flavor, making each familys recipe slightly unique.
• This dish demonstrates how modern appliances can transform classic recipes, preserving traditional flavors while dramatically reducing cooking time.

FAQ about Instant Pot Creamy Pork Chops Recipe

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