French Onion Pork Chops

French Onion Pork Chops combine the savory richness of caramelized onions with tender, juicy pork chops smothered in a flavorful gravy and topped with melted cheese. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal that tastes like it has been simmering all day, yet comes together quickly enough for any weeknight.

I first made this during a family dinner when I wanted something cozy and impressive without too much fuss. Now it is a goto when I want to treat everyone with a hearty, comforting meal that feels special.

Ingredients

• Boneless pork chops: look for ones about three quarters of an inch thick for even cooking and tenderness
• Salt and pepper: adjust to taste the seasoning brings out the natural flavors without overpowering
• Olive oil: use a good quality one for searing the pork chops bringing out a rich crust
• Large yellow onion: caramelizing these slowly develops a wonderful sweet and deep flavor that is key to the gravy
• Low sodium beef broth: choose unsalted if possible so you control the saltiness since the onion soup mix already adds salt
• Onion soup mix: this convenient packet adds classic French onion soup flavor making the gravy savory and aromatic
• Shredded Swiss cheese: adds a melty, mild tanginess you can swap for mozzarella gruyere or provolone for a different twist
• Chopped fresh parsley: optional but adds a lovely fresh color and slight herbal note to finish the dish

Instructions

Sear the Pork Chops:

Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat until shimmering. Add the pork chops and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown to lock in juices and build flavor. Remove the chops and set aside.

Caramelize the Onions:

In the same skillet add the sliced yellow onions. Reduce heat to mediumlow and cook slowly, stirring occasionally. Allow the onions to soften and turn golden brown over about 10 minutes. This slow caramelization brings out their natural sweetness and richness.

Make the Onion Gravy:

Pour the beef broth into the skillet with the onions. Add the onion soup mix and stir well to combine. Raise the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it develop flavor for a couple of minutes.

Simmer the Pork Chops in Gravy:

Nestle the seared pork chops back into the skillet, spooning some onions and gravy over them. Cover the pan and lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit ensuring they are cooked through but remain juicy.

Melt the Cheese:

Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the pork chops. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbly and gooey.

Garnish and Serve:

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to brighten up the dish visually and add a tiny hint of fresh herb flavor. Serve the chops smothered in onion gravy with your favorite sides.

My absolute favorite ingredient here has to be the caramelized onions. Their deep golden color and sweet flavor are what transform simple pork chops into something rich and unforgettable. I remember the first time I served this and watching my family dig in eagerly until every last bite was gone. It is definitely a crowd pleaser.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying out the meat. You can freeze cooked pork chops and gravy for up to two months in a freezer safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer you can use bone in pork chops but adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through. Instead of Swiss cheese try gruyere or provolone for a different cheese twist. You can also swap boneless chicken breasts or thighs and adapt cooking times accordingly for a French onion chicken variation.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes which soak up the rich gravy perfectly. Egg noodles or steamed rice also work well as a bed for the chops and sauce. For veggies steamed carrots broccoli or a simple green salad balance the richness nicely.

Let the onions caramelize slowly for the best depth of flavor. Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up every last bit of the gravy.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can these pork chops be made in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the pork chops first for better flavor. Then add them to the slow cooker with onions, beef broth, and onion soup mix. Cook on low for 4-5 hours until tender, then top with Swiss cheese and let it melt before serving.

→ What side dishes go well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice complement the rich gravy nicely. Steamed vegetables like carrots or broccoli and a fresh green salad also pair well.

→ Is it possible to cook this in the oven?

After searing the pork and caramelizing the onions on the stove, transfer everything to an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and tender.

→ Can bone-in pork chops be used?

Yes, bone-in chops can be used but may require longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

→ How can I tell when the pork chops are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 145°F for safe and juicy pork.

→ Can thinner pork chops be used?

Yes, but cooking time will need adjustment. Monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking.