Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes Recipe
When you try this Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen.
It’s all about the incredible flavors that come together so effortlessly. The pork chops are juicy and tender, soaking up all that savory goodness, while the potatoes become perfectly creamy.
I love how the Instant Pot cooks everything at once, saving me time and energy. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze!
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this dish never disappoints.
I can’t wait for you to experience this deliciousness!
Ingredients of Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes
When it comes to whipping up a hearty meal that’s sure to impress, this Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes recipe is a game changer. You know, those evenings when you want to serve something delicious but don’t have all night to spend in the kitchen? This dish has got your back.
With just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry, you can create a comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
- 2 pork chops (about 3 inches thick)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- Pepper to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup baby carrots (adjust to your taste)
- 6 mushrooms, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 potatoes, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Now, while gathering these ingredients, consider a few things. For the pork chops, thicker cuts are ideal, as they stay juicy and won’t dry out during cooking—trust me, we all want to avoid the dreaded dry chop.
If you don’t have grapeseed oil, feel free to substitute it with another high smoke point oil, like canola or avocado oil.
And let’s not forget about those potatoes; you can choose your favorite variety, whether it’s russet, Yukon gold, or even red potatoes. Each brings its own twist to the dish.
How to Make Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes
Alright, let’s plunge into the deliciousness that’s Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes. First things first, grab your 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of grapeseed oil, and get that Instant Pot ready to go. You want to select the sauté function and crank it up to high heat.
Once the pot is hot, toss in the butter. Ah, the smell of melting butter—it’s like a warm hug for your kitchen. After the butter has melted, add the oil. When both fats are sizzling away, season your two pork chops (about 3 inches thick) with 1/4 teaspoon of garlic salt and a sprinkle of pepper.
Now, carefully place the pork chops in the pot and let them brown for about 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Trust me, you want that glorious golden crust—it adds so much flavor.
Once your pork chops are beautifully browned, transfer them to a plate and set them aside. This is where it gets even better. In the same pot, toss in 1 chopped onion, 6 sliced mushrooms, and 4 crushed garlic cloves. Sauté them until they’re fragrant—oh, the aroma!
Add in 1 cup of baby carrots and give it another two minutes of cooking. Then, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and stir everything together. It’s starting to look like a party in there!
Now return those lovely pork chops to the pot. Here’s a neat trick: grab a steamer basket and place it on top of the pork chops, then add your 2 halved potatoes into that basket. This will allow the potatoes to steam while the chops cook—two birds, one pot, right?
Now, lock the lid on the Instant Pot, make sure it’s set to high pressure, and let it work its magic for 15 minutes. While you wait, maybe take a moment to contemplate your life choices or decide if you want to binge that new show everyone’s talking about.
After the time is up, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to release the pressure (don’t be like me and forget about it—trust me, the aftermath isn’t pretty). Carefully remove the potatoes, pork chops, and veggies from the pot and set them aside.
Finally, bring the cooker back to sauté mode and mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Pour that mixture into the bubbling broth to thicken it up. And voilà, you’ve got a comforting, mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress! Now, if only you could take credit for the magic of the Instant Pot.
Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore.
You can swap out pork chops for chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Instead of potatoes, try sweet potatoes or parsnips for a different flavor.
For veggies, add bell peppers or zucchini, or even throw in some green beans. If you’re in the mood for a twist, use teriyaki or barbecue sauce instead of chicken broth.
Don’t hesitate to experiment; cooking should be fun and tailored to your tastes!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes
To enhance your meal, consider serving Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables.
A crisp garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a revitalizing crunch that complements the savory flavors of the pork. If you prefer veggies, steamed broccoli or green beans work wonders, providing a delightful contrast in texture.
You might also think about adding some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices or a light fruit compote for a sweet finish.
These sides create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Instant Pot Pork Chops and Potatoes, I’ve found a few tips that can elevate your dish.
First, don’t skimp on seasoning; a bit more garlic salt and pepper goes a long way. If you like a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
For extra flavor, try marinating the pork chops beforehand. Also, if you have time, let the pressure release naturally for juicier meat.
Finally, don’t forget to save the leftover broth; it makes a fantastic base for soups. Trust me, these small tweaks can make a big difference in your meal!