Boursin Pork Chops Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 3/4-inch thick
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup sliced shallots
• 1 1/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 (5.2 ounce) package shallot and chive cheese spread (such as Boursin), broken into chunks
• Snipped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and granulated garlic. If using powdered garlic, adjust the amount slightly for a stronger flavor.

Step 2: In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter stops sizzling, add the seasoned pork chops and sear them for about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside to keep warm.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add the sliced shallots and mushrooms. Reduce the heat to medium and saut, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms soften and release their moisture, about 5 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt or to taste.

Step 4: Return the pork chops to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated. Arrange the vegetables over the chops. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 5: Increase the heat back to medium. Move the pork chops to one side of the skillet and stir the heavy cream into the pan drippings. Add the chunks of Boursin cheese and stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce begins to bubble, about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Return the pork chops to the skillet and cook, turning them occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145F (63C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer, about 5 minutes more.

Step 7: Garnish with fresh snipped chives, if desired, and serve the pork chops warm with the creamy mushroom shallot sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 496
• Total Fat: 45g (58% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 26g (128% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 148mg (49% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 169mg (7% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 8g (3% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 16g (32% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (5% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 134mg (10% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (10% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 486mg (10% Daily Value)

The Story Behind Boursin Pork Chops

Boursin Pork Chops are a modern twist on classic pan-seared pork, elevated by the addition of the famous French Boursin cheese. Boursin itself was first created in 1957 by Franois Boursin in Normandy, France, and is known for its creamy texture and rich blend of herbs and garlic. Incorporating this soft cheese into pork dishes allows for a decadent, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the mildness of pork. The recipe has gained popularity in American kitchens for its simplicity and gourmet taste, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Regional Variations

While the original inspiration is French, this dish has been adapted widely across the United States. In Southern regions, cooks often add a touch of paprika or cayenne pepper to give the sauce a mild kick. In Northern states, its common to include mushrooms and shallots as the recipe suggests, emphasizing creamy, earthy flavors. The choice of side dishes also varies regionally, from mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables in the Midwest to rice pilaf or buttery noodles in the Northeast. These small regional tweaks highlight the versatility of the dish while maintaining its creamy, comforting core.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Boursin Pork Chops differ from other creamy pork recipes primarily due to the use of herbed Boursin cheese. Traditional pork chop recipes might rely on simple cream or milk-based sauces, whereas Boursin adds a complex blend of garlic, chives, and other herbs directly into the sauce, resulting in a richer, more aromatic flavor. Unlike recipes that use cheese as a topping, this dish melts the cheese into the sauce, allowing it to infuse the pork with its unique taste rather than just adding a layer on top.

Typical Serving Occasions

This dish is often served in both home and restaurant settings. In casual home kitchens, its a favorite for family dinners, offering a balance of elegance and ease. In bistros and fine dining establishments, Boursin Pork Chops are frequently paired with light wines and seasonal vegetables, highlighting the French influence. The creamy sauce makes it especially suitable for colder months, providing comfort and indulgence at the table. It is typically accompanied by mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Interesting Facts

• Boursin cheese is still handmade in Normandy, France, using traditional methods that date back over 60 years.
• The combination of pork and Boursin cheese is particularly popular in fusion cuisine, blending French techniques with American comfort food.
• Though called Boursin Pork Chops, variations of this dish may use other soft, herbed cheeses, but none replicate the distinctive garlic-and-herb profile of authentic Boursin.
• The dish exemplifies how a simple cut of meat can be transformed into a restaurant-quality entre with minimal effort, showcasing the power of creamy, herb-infused sauces.

Whether prepared for a casual weeknight meal or a more formal dinner, Boursin Pork Chops bring together creamy richness, tender pork, and aromatic herbs for a memorable dining experience.

FAQ about Boursin Pork Chops Recipe

Comments