Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner, Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops are the perfect option. This recipe takes just a few minutes of prep time, and the Instant Pot makes cooking the pork chops incredibly simple. The result is juicy, tender pork chops covered in a creamy, tangy sour cream sauce. Whether you’re preparing this meal on a busy weeknight or for a weekend family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit.

Why You Should Make Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops

There’s something magical about cooking pork chops in the Instant Pot. The pressure cooking method locks in moisture, ensuring that even the leanest cuts of pork stay juicy and tender. What makes this recipe even better is the creamy sour cream sauce that is rich, savory, and perfectly balanced by the slight tang from the sour cream.

Not only does this dish come together quickly, but it’s also customizable. You can adjust the thickness of the sauce to your liking, and the flavors from the sautéed onions and Worcestershire sauce create a rich, savory base. It’s the perfect combination of ease and flavor.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s review the ingredients you’ll need to make Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops:

Boneless Pork Chops: Choose thick-cut boneless pork chops for the best texture and flavor. Pork chops from the blade or rib section are ideal for this recipe because they are slightly fattier, which adds moisture and flavor.
Butter or coconut oil: used for browning the pork chops and onions. Butter adds richness, while coconut oil is a great alternative for those who prefer a dairy-free option.
Onions: Thinly sliced onions will be sautéed until softened. They provide a sweet, savory depth to the sauce that complements the creamy texture.
Beef Stock: The base of the sauce. It adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the pork chops. You can substitute with chicken broth if preferred.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a slightly tangy, umami flavor that balances out the richness of the sour cream sauce.
Arrowroot or cornstarch: These thickeners are optional but help create a creamy, smooth sauce. Arrowroot is a great choice for those on low-carb or gluten-free diets.
Sour Cream: The star of the sauce, sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess, creating a delicious, velvety texture for the sauce.

How to Make Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to make this amazing dish:

1. Prepare the Pork Chops

Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the pork. While you can marinate the pork chops beforehand, it’s not necessary for this recipe since the Instant Pot will infuse the pork with flavor during the cooking process.

2. Sauté the Onions and Pork Chops

Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Add the butter (or coconut oil) to the pot and let it melt. Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they are softened and lightly caramelized, about 3-5 minutes. Once the onions are softened, move them to one side of the pot and add the pork chops. Sear the pork chops for about 2 minutes on each side, just to get a nice golden-brown crust.

3. Deglaze the Pot

Once the pork chops are browned, press Cancel on the Instant Pot to stop the sauté function. Add the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits will add incredible flavor to your sauce.

4. Pressure Cook the Pork Chops

Place the pork chops back into the pot. Secure the lid and make sure the vent is set to sealing. Select Pressure Cook (or Manual) on high for 8 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, manually release the remaining pressure.

Thickening the Sauce and Final Steps

After the pork chops have cooked and the pressure has been released, it’s time to focus on the sauce. Depending on your preference for sauce consistency, you have a few options to adjust the thickness.

1. Remove the Pork Chops and Keep Warm

Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the Instant Pot and place them on a plate. Cover the chops loosely with foil to keep them warm while you finish the sauce.

2. Simmer the Sauce to Your Desired Consistency

Switch the Instant Pot back to the Sauté setting to bring the remaining liquid to a simmer. If you like a thicker sauce, allow it to cook down for a few minutes. If you prefer a medium-thick sauce, let it simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. For a thicker sauce, you can make a slurry by mixing arrowroot powder or cornstarch with a little water and adding it to the pot while it’s simmering. Stir well to avoid any lumps.

3. Add the Sour Cream

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, turn off the Instant Pot and allow the temperature to cool slightly for a few seconds. Then, stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. The sour cream will give the sauce a creamy, velvety texture and a slightly tangy flavor that balances out the richness.

4. Serve the Pork Chops

Place the pork chops back into the sauce, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Allow the pork chops to rest in the sauce for a minute before serving. The sauce will coat the pork chops beautifully, creating a luscious, comforting dish.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops

To ensure that your Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops come out perfectly every time, here are some tips to consider:

1. Use Bone-In Pork Chops for Extra Flavor

While boneless pork chops are great for this recipe, bone-in chops will provide extra flavor and moisture. The bone helps retain juices during cooking, making the meat even more tender and flavorful. If using bone-in pork chops, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pork Chops

Pork chops can dry out if overcooked, so be mindful of the cooking time. The Instant Pot is very efficient, and 8 minutes of pressure cooking is usually perfect for a one-inch thick pork chop. If your pork chops are thicker, you can increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.

3. Sauté the Onions Until Softened

Caramelizing the onions before cooking adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. Make sure to sauté the onions long enough until they are soft and slightly browned before adding the pork chops to the pot. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

4. Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce to Your Liking

Everyone has their own preference when it comes to the sauce’s consistency. You can easily adjust the thickness by simmering the sauce for longer, or by adding a thickener such as cornstarch or arrowroot powder. This flexibility allows you to make the sauce just how you like it.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops

These Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops are flavorful and rich, so you’ll want to pair them with sides that complement the creamy sauce and balance the meal. Here are a few great options:

1. Mashed Cauliflower

For a low-carb, keto-friendly side, mashed cauliflower is a perfect match. The creamy texture of mashed cauliflower mimics mashed potatoes and pairs wonderfully with the tangy sour cream sauce.

2. Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are a great low-carb alternative to pasta. Sauté them lightly in olive oil and garlic for a simple, healthy side that complements the pork chops without overpowering them.

3. Steamed Green Beans

Green beans are an excellent vegetable side dish for this meal. Their crisp texture and slight bitterness provide a nice contrast to the creamy, rich pork chops. You can steam them or sauté them with a bit of garlic and lemon for added flavor.

4. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms have an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with pork. Sauté them in butter or olive oil and add a bit of thyme or rosemary for a savory addition to the meal.

5. Salad

For a light, refreshing side, serve a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will balance out the richness of the pork chops and provide a nice contrast in textures.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, storing and reheating them properly is important to maintain the flavor and texture of the pork chops.

Storing Leftovers

Cool the Pork Chops: Allow the pork chops to cool to room temperature before storing them.
Airtight Container: Place the pork chops and the creamy sauce in an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Separate Sauce and Meat: If you prefer, you can store the sauce and pork chops separately to prevent the pork from getting too soggy.

Reheating Leftovers

Microwave: Place the pork chops and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat the pork chops and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the pork chops with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Common Questions About Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops

1. Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops for this recipe. Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful due to the bone’s ability to retain moisture during cooking. However, since bone-in chops take longer to cook than boneless, you may need to add an extra 2-3 minutes to the pressure cooking time. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145°F to ensure it is cooked through.

2. Can I make this recipe with thicker pork chops?

Absolutely! If you’re using thicker pork chops, adjust the cooking time. For pork chops thicker than 1 inch, increase the pressure cooking time by 2-3 minutes. It’s important to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches 145°F.

3. Can I freeze Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops?

It’s not recommended to freeze the pork chops once they’ve been cooked in the sour cream sauce. The pork may dry out when reheated, and the sauce can become too thin or grainy. However, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider freezing the pork chops before cooking and then following the recipe when ready to cook.

4. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you have a few options:

Simmer the sauce longer in the Instant Pot on the sauté function to reduce it and thicken the consistency.
Create a slurry by mixing a thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot powder with a little water, then stir it into the sauce while simmering to thicken.
For an even creamier sauce, you can add a bit more sour cream or use a full-fat cream cheese instead of sour cream for a richer texture.

5. Can I use a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, although the cooking method will change. To make this recipe in a slow cooker, brown the pork chops and onions in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce, and other ingredients, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the pork chops are tender. Once the pork chops are done, stir in the sour cream and cook for an additional 15 minutes on low.