Smothered pork chops are a classic comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. These are an excellent food that most people love.
The tender meat cooked in a flavorful sauce is a crowd-pleaser that can be paired with a variety of side dishes.
However, choosing the right-side dishes to complement the pork chops can be a challenge.
The juicy pork and savory gravy make for a delicious main course, but what to serve with smothered pork chops?
That’s why we’ve put together a list of some quick and amazing dishes that will take your smothered pork chops to the next level.
From classic sides to more adventurous options, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dig in!
What is smothered pork chops? What do smothered pork chops taste like?
Smothered pork chops are an ideal classic Southern dish consisting of pan-fried pork chops that are cooked slowly with onions, garlic, and seasonings until they become tender.
The flavors blend together to create an irresistible mix of savory, juicy deliciousness.
Smothered pork chops have a light smoky taste from the seasoning and a slight sweetness from the onions.
They’re hearty enough to serve as a main course for dinner but flavorful enough to be served as an appetizer or side dish.
Best Sides to serve with smothered pork chops
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic accompaniment to smothered pork chops.
The flavors of the gravy and the pork merge with the potatoes, creating a harmonious taste. Mash your potatoes with butter and sour cream to create a rich and delicious side.
2. Collard Greens
Cooked with onion, garlic, and smoked turkey, collard greens are a Southern classic that pairs well with smothered pork chops.
They are fully packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy side dish choice.
3. Cornbread
Cornbread is a traditional Southern staple that pairs perfectly with smothered pork chops.
The sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory flavors of the pork and the gravy.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense options that pair well with smothered pork chops.
Coating them with a tiny bit of olive oil and seasoning, then roasting them in the oven brings out the full flavor of the veggies.
5. Fried Okra
Fried okra, dipped in buttermilk and seasoned cornmeal, is another Southern side classic that adds a crispy texture to your plate.
The combination of the fried okra’s crunchiness mixed with the tenderness of the pork creates a mouthwatering sensation.
Discover More: What to Serve with Fried Okra| 25 Delicious and Easy Side Dishes to Try
6. Applesauce
A delicious and simple side is applesauce. The sweetness of the applesauce is a perfect complement to the savory flavors of the pork chops.
It also provides a refreshing balance to the rich and heavy main dish.
7. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic steakhouse side dish that also pairs well with smothered pork chops.
The creaminess of the dish created with milk or heavy cream provides a pleasant contrast to the texture of the pork chops.
8. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a protein-packed side dish that complements the smoky flavor of the pork.
The sweetness of the beans will balance out the saltiness of the pork chops, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
9. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese are delicious, easy, and quick to prepare, making it the perfect side dish to prepare with smothered pork chops.
The flavors and comfort of the mac and cheese provide a satisfying and fulfilling meal.
10. Cabbage Slaw
Fresh and crunchy cabbage slaw is an excellent light side dish to pair with the heavier smothered pork chops.
The crunch of the cabbage combined with the savory flavors of the smothered pork makes for a delightful combination.
11. Sauteed Green Beans
Sauteed green beans are ideally a quick and easy side dish that adds a fresh and healthy component to your meal.
The bright, crisp beans pair perfectly with the savory, smothered pork chops.
12. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a classic, healthy, and flavorful alternative to traditional potatoes.
Baked sweet potatoes are an ideal great side dish that includes a touch of sweetness to your meal.
13. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, beets, and parsnips, are a healthy and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with smothered pork chops.
The hearty and slightly sweet vegetables add a touch of earthiness to the meal.
Main Course to eat with smothered pork chops
Smothered pork chops go amazingly well with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Mashed potatoes make for the perfect accompanying side dish as they are creamy and savory, a perfect contrast to the savory and slightly sweet flavor of the smothered pork chops.
Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, yellow squash, carrots, and mushrooms provide a flavorful and colorful accompaniment to the pork chops.
A fresh green salad is also an excellent choice for providing lightness and balance.
For an even lighter option, try serving steamed rice with your smothered pork chops – it will help absorb all of the delicious flavors of the sauce while still providing plenty of satisfying texture.
Appetizers to serve with smothered pork chops
1. Baked Potato Skins
Topped with melted cheese, bacon, and chives, these potato skins are the ideal appetizer to serve alongside smothered pork chops. Plus, they’re a fun and easy-to-make crowd-pleaser.
2. Mini Corn Dogs
Bite-sized corn dogs are an ideal side dish for pork chops. They pair well with all sorts of condiments like honey mustard or barbecue sauce.
3. Fried Pickles
Crispy fried pickles add flavor and crunch to your meal. Dip them in ranch dressing for extra zing!
4. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are classic appetizers that can be dressed up with all sorts of fun flavors, from bacon bits to smoked paprika to pickle relish.
Try More: 17 Perfect and Mouthwatering Side Dishes to Serve with Deviled Eggs
5. Roasted Brussel Sprouts
Roasted brussel sprouts are a fantastic side dish for many meals, including smothered pork chops!
The slight crunch and nutty flavor make them a delightful addition to any plate.
6. Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Skewers
Bacon-wrapped shrimp skewers offer a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize taste buds when paired with smothered pork chops!
Simply skewer the shrimp onto toothpicks with bacon slices in between each one before grilling or baking them to perfection.
7. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is always a hit at dinnertime, but its creamy texture also makes it an excellent accompaniment to smothered pork chops!
For added flavor, try adding jalapenos or other spices into the mix before baking it into a cheesy masterpiece!
What else is served with smothered pork chops
Drinks to pair with smothered pork chops
1. Beer
Beer is a great accompaniment to smothered pork chops because it helps to cut through the richness of the dish while also complimenting its flavor.
Select a beer with some sweetness and a malty character, such as an amber ale or English brown ale.
Learn More: 16 Top and Delicious Dishes to Serve with Beer Cheese Soup
2. Merlot
Merlot is a good choice for this hearty dish because it has just enough body and tannins to stand up to the savory pork chops.
Its dark fruit flavors, like black cherry and plum, pair perfectly with dishes that contain hints of sweetness, like smothered pork chops.
3. Sauternes
For those who prefer a sweet wine, Sauternes is an excellent option to pair with smothered pork chops.
This French dessert wine has a honeyed apricot flavor that helps complement the sweetness of the pork chops without overwhelming them with sugar.
4. Hard Cider
Hard Cider is an often-overlooked pairing for smothered pork chops, but it can be surprisingly tasty when done right.
Look for a semi-sweet cider that has some tartness and acidity, as these characteristics help to balance out the richness of the dish without overpowering its flavor notes.
5. Sparkling Water
If you’re looking for something nonalcoholic, sparkling water can make for great refreshment alongside smothered pork chops without changing too much from the traditional meal itself.
The carbonation helps cleanse your palate while still leaving plenty of room for enjoying all the flavors in your dish!
6. Tomato Juice
Tomato juice might sound like an odd choice, but its acidity and boldness make it surprisingly complementary with smothered pork chops!
The juice itself will work to cut through some of the fat in your dish while providing added dimension in terms of both texture and taste profile.
7. Iced Tea
Iced tea isn’t usually thought of when selecting drinks for dinner, but this classic beverage pairs well with just about anything, including smothered pork chops!
Its mild bitterness provides a welcome contrast against the richness of the savory meal while still allowing its flavors to shine through on their own accord.
Desserts to go with smothered pork chops
1. Apple Crisp
A classic autumn dessert, apple crisp is a delicious way to complement smothered pork chops.
Packed with sweet apples, cinnamon, and an oat and brown sugar crumble topping, this dish is sure to delight the taste buds.
For added flavor, serve it warm and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
2. Peach Cobbler
Deliciously sweet peaches meld together with a buttery biscuit topping to create a mouthwatering cobbler that pairs perfectly with smothered pork chops. (Recipe)
Serve warm with a generous helping of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added sweetness.
3. Bread Pudding
An old-fashioned favorite, bread pudding becomes even more decadent when served alongside smothered pork chops.
To make it even tastier, try adding ingredients such as raisins or chocolate chips into the mix for added flavor and texture.
Serve warm with some freshly whipped cream on top for an extra special treat!
4. Carrot Cake
Spicy and sweet all at once, carrot cake is the perfect accompaniment to smothered pork chops.
Loaded with crunchy carrots, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this moist cake is sure to be a hit amongst family and friends alike!
Top off each slice with freshly made cream cheese frosting for an extra special finishing touch!
5. Brownies
Rich and fudgy brownies are sure to please everyone after dinner when served alongside smothered pork chops.
Try adding walnuts or chocolate chips for added crunchy texture, or stir in some peanut butter into the batter before baking for an indulgent twist on the traditional recipe!
What are the best flavors to go with smothered pork chops?
Smothered pork chops are a classic comfort dish that pairs well with a variety of flavors.
A savory combination of onion, garlic, herbs, and spices can be used to season the pork chops before they are cooked.
Once cooked, the pork chops can be smothered in a delicious gravy made with butter, flour, and chicken stock.
For those who wish to add an extra layer of flavor to the smothered pork chops, there are numerous options available.
A classic pairing for smothered pork chops is onions and mushrooms, which can either be added directly to the pan or served as a side dish.
Adding different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage will also add depth of flavor to this comforting dish.
Additionally, adding vegetables such as carrots or celery adds texture and nutrition while still being complementary to the meal.
Another way to add an extra touch of flavor is by incorporating various fruits into the dish — for example, applesauce or cranberry sauce can bring sweetness that balances out perfectly with the savory flavor of the pork chops.
Furthermore, using sauces such as barbecue or Worcestershire sauce helps enhance all of these flavors together even more.
Finally, incorporating cheeses like Parmesan or Mozzarella gives the dish a creamy finish that will leave everyone wanting more!
How do you jazz up smothered pork chops?
To jazz up smothered pork chops, try using garlic and onion powder as a rub. You can also include your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme.
Then, pan-fry the pork chops until they are golden brown on both sides. Once cooked through, remove them from the heat and add some butter to the pan for a delicious gravy.
Finally, you can top off the meal with mushrooms or even apples for an extra tasty dish!
How do you display smothered pork chops on a platter?
Pork chops can be beautifully plated by arranging them on a large plate or platter.
Start by placing the pork chops in the middle of the plate and then creating an artful display around them.
To do this, you could arrange colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and onions around the pork chops.
Alternatively, you could top the pork chops with a flavorful sauce like a mushroom gravy or an onion-garlic gravy.
Additionally, adding a garnish of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro will create an inviting aesthetic to your dish.
Finally, don’t forget to add some freshly baked bread rolls to complete your mouthwatering presentation.
Discover More: 16 Quick and Mouthwatering Side Dishes to Serve with Stuffed Pork Chops
Wrap Up on what to serve with smothered pork chops
Smothered pork chops are a classic dish that has been enjoyed for decades.
When it comes to choosing sides, there are several options that you can serve alongside smothered pork chops.
From mashed potatoes to creamed spinach to cornbread to roasted vegetables, the possibilities are endless.
Hopefully, this article has given you some inspiration and guidance to create your own perfect smothered pork chop experience.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment with different flavors to find your perfect pairing. Happy cooking!
FAQs
How many smothered pork chops per person?
Since smothered pork chops are a hearty meal, it is recommended that each person be served two per person.
This will provide the right balance of protein and other nutrients to keep everyone satisfied.
When preparing the dish, be sure to use plenty of butter or oil to ensure that the chops are cooked through and juicy on the inside.
Additionally, adding flavorful spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano will give the dish an extra depth of flavor.
The pork chops should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
Serve with sides such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
What vegetables go with smothered pork chops?
Smothered pork chops are often served with a variety of vegetables to create a hearty, comforting meal.
Popular vegetables to serve alongside the pork include potatoes, onions, mushrooms, and peppers.
Potatoes can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasted, mashed, or boiled.
Onions can be cooked in oil until caramelized for sweetness and depth of flavor.
Mushrooms can be sautéed with butter or olive oil and garlic for an earthy addition to the dish. Peppers can also be sautéed or roasted for texture and color.
If you’re feeling adventurous, other vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, kale, carrots, or squash, can also be added for more depth of flavor and texture.
Notwithstanding what vegetables you choose to accompany your smothered pork chops, they will all add a delicious boost of flavor that will help make the meal even more enjoyable!
What’s a good side for smothered pork chops?
Smothered pork chops are best served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crunchy coleslaw.
Mashed potatoes provide the perfect creamy contrast to the savory pork chops, while the Brussels sprouts add a burst of flavor and color.
Alternatively, for an extra crunchy bite, try a side of coleslaw made with fresh cabbage and carrots.
You can also pair your smothered pork chops with roasted vegetables such as sweet potato wedges or butternut squash cubes.
To make it even more delicious, serve the smothered pork chops with a homemade honey mustard sauce for dipping.
For an easy dinner that’s full of flavor and nutrition, serve your smothered pork chops with any of these sides!
What Flavor goes with pork chops?
When it comes to pairing pork chops with flavors, there are a variety of options.
For a classic combination that pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of pork chops, consider adding a herby marinade or dry rub of rosemary, sage, garlic, and onion powder.
Other great options for seasoning pork chops include citrusy notes like lemon and lime juice or zest, adding some smokiness with smoked paprika or chipotle powder, or going sweet with a honey mustard glaze.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to enhancing the flavor of pork chops!
