Pork Chops with Mustard Cream Sauce is a luxurious yet simple dish that transforms everyday ingredients into an elegant, restaurant-worthy meal.

The pork chops are seared until beautifully golden and juicy, then smothered in a velvety sauce made with Dijon mustard, garlic, cream, and herbs. The result is a savory, tangy, and rich flavor profile that complements the natural sweetness of the pork perfectly. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something quick but impressive, yet it also shines as a dinner-party centerpiece that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it offers sophistication with minimal effort. The combination of pan-seared pork and a creamy mustard sauce creates layers of flavor that feel comforting and elegant at the same time. The sauce clings beautifully to the pork, enhancing every bite.

It’s a one-pan recipe, which means easy cleanup, and the ingredients are pantry staples you probably already have on hand. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and gourmet taste.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it brings depth, richness, and refinement to the table in less than 30 minutes. The mustard cream sauce is a standout component with bold tang from the mustard, richness from the cream, and a subtle aromatic quality from garlic and herbs.

The flavors work together seamlessly, creating a comforting yet elevated meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or a special dinner for yourself, this dish never disappoints and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Approximate Calories: 480–520 per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: European / French-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Mustard Cream Sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (optional but recommended)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)

For Garnish

Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Cooking Directions

Cook the Pork Chops

Season pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear pork chops for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add chicken broth and scrape up the browned bits.
Stir in Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Simmer until thickened.

Combine and Serve

Return pork chops to the pan and coat with sauce.
Simmer 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Garnish and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Pat pork chops dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear.
2. Season both sides liberally with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high and melt butter with olive oil.
4. Place pork chops in the pan and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until browned.
5. Remove the pork chops and set aside on a plate.
6. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
7. Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the pan by scraping up the browned bits.
8. Stir in Dijon mustard and whole-grain mustard.
9. Add heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
10. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
11. Add lemon juice if desired for extra brightness.
12. Return pork chops to the pan, spoon sauce over them, and simmer an additional 2–3 minutes.
13. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the pork chops generously topped with the mustard cream sauce.
Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
A light side salad or steamed green vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, or broccoli complements the richness perfectly.
Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Recipe Tips

Use bone-in pork chops for juicier results.
Do not overcook the pork; remove from heat when internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Let the sauce simmer gently, not boil, to prevent separation.
Whole-grain mustard adds texture and depth but can be omitted.
A splash of white wine can replace some of the chicken broth for added flavor.

Variations

Creamy Herb Pork Chops
Add fresh rosemary or tarragon to the sauce for an herby finish.

Spicy Mustard Cream Sauce
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Honey Mustard Version
Add 1 teaspoon honey to the sauce for a sweet touch.

Mushroom Mustard Sauce
Add sliced mushrooms and sauté them before adding broth for a richer sauce.

Low-Calorie Version
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream.

Grainy French Mustard Version
Use whole-grain French mustard only for a rustic and sharp sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing
Freeze pork chops with sauce for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce.
Microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking the pork.

Special Equipment Needed

Large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel)
Tongs
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but they cook faster, so adjust cooking time to avoid dryness.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Half-and-half or coconut cream can work, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

Can I use only Dijon mustard?
Yes, but adding whole-grain mustard enhances texture and flavor.

Why is my sauce too thin?
Continue simmering until it reduces, or add a small splash of cream.

Why did my sauce curdle?
The heat was likely too high. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer.

Conclusion

Pork Chops with Mustard Cream Sauce is a hearty, flavorful, and elevated dish that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients to create something memorable. With its perfectly seared pork and velvety mustard sauce, it offers rich elegance with minimal effort. Whether served for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe guarantees a delicious and satisfying meal every time. Enjoy the creamy, tangy flavors and the comforting warmth of this delightful dish.