Craving a hearty meal that combines succulent pork chops with the delightful chewiness of gnocchi? Look no further! This Skillet Pork Chops Gnocchi Sauté is a culinary masterpiece that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this dish features tender pork chops seared to perfection, paired with golden-brown gnocchi and vibrant spinach. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dinner game—this recipe is a must-try!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 package gnocchi
- 2 cups spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 4 pork chops, 1 package of gnocchi, 2 cups of fresh spinach, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to heat for about 1 minute until shimmering.
- While the oil is heating, season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate to rest.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Next, add the package of gnocchi directly to the skillet. Stir gently to combine with the garlic and allow the gnocchi to cook for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to brown slightly and are heated through.
- After the gnocchi has cooked, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together for about 2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the gnocchi is fully heated.
- Return the rested pork chops to the skillet, nestling them among the gnocchi and spinach. Allow everything to heat together for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Once everything is heated through, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the skillet pork chops with a generous portion of the gnocchi and spinach mixture on the side. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose Quality Pork Chops: Opt for bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and juiciness. If using boneless, ensure they are of good quality for the best results.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the pork chops to rest after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a more tender bite.
- Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: For a delightful texture, don’t overcook the gnocchi. They should be golden and slightly crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.
- Fresh Spinach Matters: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and vibrant color. If you prefer a different green, kale or Swiss chard can also work well.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Seasoning the pork chops before cooking enhances their flavor, and you can adjust the seasoning of the entire dish at the end.
- Add a Splash of Lemon: For a bright finish, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving. It adds a refreshing zing that complements the richness of the pork and gnocchi.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary while cooking the pork chops for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 90mg
