Savory Maple Bacon Pork Chops with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce

When it comes to comfort food with a gourmet twist, nothing beats these savory maple bacon pork chops topped with a luxurious Dijon mustard cream sauce. This recipe combines smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors into a show-stopping meal that’s both easy to make and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a decadent meal at home, this dish is sure to impress.

Savory Maple Bacon Pork Chops with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 thick-cut bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard (optional, for texture)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare and Sear the Pork Chops

1. Remove pork chops from the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Rub the pork chops with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
4. Heat the skillet with the bacon grease over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the pork chops and set them aside.

2. Make the Maple Bacon Glaze

1. Lower the heat to medium. Add the maple syrup to the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits.
2. Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
3. Spoon the maple bacon mixture over the seared pork chops, coating evenly.

3. Prepare the Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Whisk in the Dijon mustard and whole-grain mustard (if using). Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes, thickening slightly.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Assemble and Serve

1. Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the Dijon mustard cream sauce over the top. Let them simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

These savory maple bacon pork chops pair wonderfully with:

• Mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combination.
• Steamed asparagus or green beans for a pop of color and freshness.
• Crusty bread to soak up every drop of the creamy mustard sauce.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pork chops: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for tender and juicy results.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of maple syrup slightly.
• Make it your own: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap the parsley for fresh thyme.

FAQ / Savory Maple Bacon Pork Chops

1. Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.

2. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Dijon mustard cream sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

3. What’s the best type of bacon for this recipe?
Thick-cut bacon is ideal, as it holds up well during cooking and adds a hearty, smoky flavor.

This recipe for savory maple bacon pork chops with Dijon mustard cream sauce is the ultimate balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend feast, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try and take your pork chops to the next level!