Very Special Pork Chops
Very Special Pork Chops offers tender, flavorful pork paired with a hearty tomato-based sauce infused with onions, celery, and green peppers. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this dish combines simple ingredients for a satisfying, savory experience that highlights classic home-cooked flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the pork chops in fat in a heavy skillet; pour off the drippings.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, green pepper, tomato soup, and water to the skillet.
- Cover and cook over low heat for about 1 hour or until the chops are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have green pepper, feel free to substitute with any bell pepper or even zucchini for a different taste. Browning the chops properly will enhance the overall flavor of the dish, so don’t rush this step.
Serving Suggestions
These very special pork chops are best served with creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of sautéed green beans or a fresh garden salad would complete the meal beautifully. For a delightful twist, try pairing it with the Ham And Cheese Skillet Supper for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave them covered with a damp paper towel for a few minutes until warm. This helps maintain tenderness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Special Pork Chops contains roughly 848 calories, with 35g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (70% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 861mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly use boneless pork chops. Just be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce mixed with a bit of sugar and seasoning to mimic the sweetness and consistency of tomato soup. This will still create a rich sauce for the pork chops.
How can I tell when the pork chops are done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Additionally, the meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone if using bone-in chops. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).