Baked Pork Chops with Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe

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Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed with its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. The original recipe yields 4 servings.

• yellow onion, sliced
• 4 boneless pork chops
• 26 ounces condensed cream of mushroom soup
• cup water
• 2 cubes beef bouillon

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. Preheat the oven to 325F (165C).
3. Place the onion slices at the bottom of a glass baking dish.
4. Lay the pork chops on top of the onions.
5. Cover the pork chops evenly with condensed soup.
6. Pour in the water and crumble the bouillon cubes to ensure the flavor spreads evenly.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
8. Bake in the preheated oven, stirring the gravy once or twice, for about 1 hour or until the pork chops are no longer pink in the center.
9. To check for doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of a chop. It should read at least 145F (63C).

Cook's Note

If you dont have a fresh onion, you can substitute with onion flakes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	419
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	107mg
Sodium	1674mg
Total Carbohydrate	14g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	44g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	34mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	684mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

This simple yet flavorful dish of baked pork chops with cream of mushroom soup has become a beloved classic in many households, offering a comforting meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. The recipe is a variation of traditional smothered pork chops, with the addition of creamy mushroom soup to create a rich, savory gravy. Below, we explore the origins of the dish, its regional variations, and how it stands apart from similar recipes.

History of the Dish

The use of cream of mushroom soup in cooking gained popularity in the mid-20th century, especially in American homes where convenience foods began to dominate the kitchen. Campbell's Soup Company, one of the pioneers in processed soups, promoted this ingredient as an easy way to add flavor and moisture to various dishes. The baked pork chop with cream of mushroom soup recipe likely evolved in response to this culinary shift, offering a quick and simple method to prepare a comforting meal. Over time, home cooks across the country have made this dish their own, adding personal touches like different seasonings or vegetables.

Regional Variations

Though the dish is widely enjoyed throughout the United States, there are regional variations. In the South, for example, it is common to serve baked pork chops with sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or cornbread, which complement the rich flavors of the creamy gravy. In contrast, some Midwestern versions incorporate more vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to make it a one-pot meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility, with variations in seasonings or the addition of different types of canned soup, such as golden mushroom or even onion soup, to alter the flavor profile.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

At first glance, baked pork chops with cream of mushroom soup may seem similar to other smothered pork chop recipes. However, its key difference lies in the simplicity and consistency of the ingredients. Traditional smothered pork chops typically involve browning the meat and simmering it in a sauce made from broth, seasonings, and sometimes flour or roux. In contrast, the cream of mushroom soup version eliminates the need for a lengthy cooking process, as the soup provides both moisture and flavor, resulting in a tender, juicy pork chop with a rich, creamy gravy. This makes it a quicker option for busy weeknights while still offering the same satisfying taste.

Where It's Commonly Served

Baked pork chops with cream of mushroom soup are a staple in many American homes, often served as a casual family dinner. The dish is especially popular in the Midwest and South, where pork is a frequently used protein. It is typically paired with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables to balance out the richness of the gravy. It can also be found in comfort food restaurants that offer home-style cooking, where patrons can enjoy it with a hearty portion of potatoes or steamed greens.

Fun Facts About the Dish

• The combination of pork and mushrooms dates back centuries, with mushrooms often being used to enhance the umami flavor of meats in European and Asian cuisines.
• The use of canned soups in recipes like this one became particularly popular during the post-World War II era, when convenience foods made home cooking quicker and more accessible.
• Some variations of this dish call for browning the pork chops first to develop more depth of flavor, while others use boneless chops for a quicker cooking time.
• While most recipes call for beef bouillon cubes, some home cooks substitute with chicken bouillon or even vegetable bouillon for a different flavor twist.

Conclusion

Baked pork chops with cream of mushroom soup is a timeless recipe that has stood the test of time for good reason. Its a simple, versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes while offering the comfort of a homemade meal. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to please a crowd with its tender meat and creamy, savory gravy.

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