Seared pork chops with cheddar mashed potatoes, pan gravy, and green beans for a hearty, comforting dinner.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pork Chops
01 - 4 boneless pork chops, approximately 1-inch thick
02 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
06 - 1 sprig fresh thyme, optional
→ Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
07 - 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 1/2 cup whole milk, plus more if needed
11 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
→ Pan Gravy
13 - 2 tablespoons pan drippings from pork chops
14 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
15 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour as needed)
16 - 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
17 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
18 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Green Beans
19 - 12 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed
20 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
21 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
22 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
# Directions:
01 - Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until fork-tender, 15 to 18 minutes. Drain potatoes, return to pot, and mash with butter, milk, cheese, and white pepper until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
02 - Meanwhile, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt and black pepper. Sear chops, 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F). Add thyme sprig for extra aroma if desired. Move chops to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
03 - Reduce heat to medium and add butter to remaining pan drippings. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking frequently. Gradually pour in chicken broth and Dijon, whisking to combine. Simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
04 - While the gravy simmers, toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Steam or sauté green beans until vibrant and crisp-tender, 5 to 7 minutes.
05 - Divide mashed potatoes among four bowls. Place a pork chop on each serving, drizzle with pan gravy, and arrange green beans on the side.
