Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

These Instant Pot pork chops with creamy mushroom gravy are tender, flavorful, and easy to make in one pot. A comforting dinner recipe with rich sauce and simple ingredients, perfect for busy nights.

 Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

There’s something about pork chops and homemade gravy that just feels like comfort on a plate.

It’s the kind of meal that reminds you of slow, cozy dinners — but let’s be honest, most nights we don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen anymore. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in.

With a quick sauté, a short pressure cook, and a simple creamy mushroom gravy made right in the same pot, these pork chops turn out incredibly tender and full of flavor every time. No dry meat, no complicated steps, and no stack of dishes waiting when you’re done.

This is one of those reliable recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again — especially on nights when you want real comfort food without a lot of effort.

If you love rich gravy, juicy pork chops, and easy one-pot dinners, this recipe is about to become a favorite.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, comforting ingredients that come together to create tender pork chops and a rich, creamy gravy.

• Bone-In Pork Chops - Thick-cut chops stay juicy and tender under pressure and add extra flavor to the sauce.

• Steak Seasoning - An easy way to layer in savory, peppery flavor without measuring multiple spices.

• Olive Oil - Helps create a golden crust when browning the pork chops.

• Unsalted Butter - Adds richness and forms the base of the creamy gravy.

• Garlic - Brings warmth and depth to the sauce.

• White Onion - Softens as it cooks and adds natural sweetness to the gravy.

• Fresh Mushrooms - Provide earthy flavor and hearty texture.

• Chicken Broth - Deglazes the pot and builds the foundation of the sauce.

• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper - Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

• Cornstarch - Thickens the gravy into a smooth, silky sauce.

• Heavy Whipping Cream - Creates the rich, creamy finish that makes this dish feel extra comforting.

-- Let’s Make It Together

First, turn your Instant Pot to sauté and add the olive oil. Season the pork chops with steak seasoning and brown them for a few minutes on each side. This step builds flavor, so don’t rush it. Set the pork chops aside once they’re golden.

Add the butter to the pot, followed by the mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper, then use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom. This is where so much flavor lives.

Return the pork chops to the pot, secure the lid, and pressure cook on high for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before finishing with a quick release.

Transfer the pork chops to a serving dish.

Switch back to sauté mode. Whisk together the cornstarch with some hot broth, then stir it into the pot. Cook until thickened, then whisk in the cream. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Pour the gravy over the pork chops and serve warm.

 

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to tender pork chops in the Instant Pot is browning first and allowing a short natural pressure release. Searing locks in flavor, while the natural release keeps the meat from tightening too quickly. Together, these steps ensure juicy pork and a rich, well-developed gravy.

-- Add Your Touch

This recipe is easy to customize based on what you love.

Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby twist. Stir in a splash of white wine before pressure cooking for extra depth. Swap mushrooms for bell peppers if you prefer. Or finish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.

Make it yours — this gravy welcomes creativity.

Set the Mood

See my tips below to create a wonderful atmosphere for enjoying your meal.

If you’re craving comfort food that fits into real life, these Instant Pot pork chops deliver every time. They’re rich, satisfying, and easy enough for busy nights.

If you loved this recipe, you may also enjoy:

• My Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Garlic Herb Chicken Bowls

• Baked Ranch Chicken for Two

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Before You Start

• Can I use bone-in pork chops? Yes, but increase the cook time slightly and watch closely to avoid drying.

• Do I have to use mushrooms? No. You can omit them or substitute peppers or extra onion.

• What if my gravy is too thin? Simmer longer on sauté or add a little more slurry.

• Can I make this ahead? Yes. Store in an airtight container up to 3 days and reheat gently.

• Can I freeze leftovers? The pork freezes well, but cream sauces may separate slightly when thawed.

 

 

 

Pork Tenderloin Medallions in a Rich Mushroom Gravy

Tender pork tenderloin medallions cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich mushroom gravy make the perfect cozy, unfussy dinner as we head into a new year. Comforting, flavorful, and easy to make.

Pork Tenderloin Medallions in a Rich Mushroom Gravy 

As we head into 2026—and what’s already shaping up to be a cold winter—this is exactly the kind of meal I find myself craving. Nothing fancy, nothing fussy. Just my cast iron skillet on the stove, with something savory simmering away.  This is going to make dinner feel warm and cozy.  After a season full of celebrations and indulgence, I’m ready for food that’s comforting with little effort, and this pork tenderloin with rich mushroom gravy fits my mood perfectly.

This is a one pan wonder that fills the kitchen with a cozy aromas.  It’s a simple recipe that feels special enough for a quiet weekend dinner or a weeknight when you just want to slow things down a bit. The pork is cut into medallions and stays tender and flavorful, and the mushroom gravy—rich and velvety without a drop of cream—brings everything together in a way that feels deeply satisfying.

I served it with a restaurant style baked potatoes this time, but it is perfect with something that can soak up every bit of that gravy—creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or even some crusty bread warm from the oven. Add a simple green vegetable or a crisp winter salad, and dinner feels complete without feeling heavy. This is the kind of meal I crave as we settle into winter cooking again—comforting, unfussy, and meant to be enjoyed slowly.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

This recipe uses simple, familiar ingredients that come together into something deeply comforting.

• Pork Tenderloin - Lean, tender, and quick-cooking, pork tenderloin is ideal for medallions. When sliced and lightly dredged, it stays juicy while developing a beautiful golden crust.

• All-Purpose Flour - Used twice in this recipe — first to lightly coat the pork for browning, and again to create a classic roux that thickens the gravy.

• Butter & Olive Oil - This combination gives you the best of both worlds: butter for flavor and olive oil to help prevent burning while cooking over higher heat.

• Mushrooms (Baby Bella / Cremini) - These mushrooms add deep, savory flavor and a hearty texture to the gravy. They hold up well to browning and bring that cozy, umami-rich base to the sauce.

• Garlic - A generous amount of garlic adds warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.

• Beef Broth - Using beef broth gives the gravy a richer, more robust flavor than chicken broth, especially when paired with mushrooms.

• Worcestershire Sauce & Soy Sauce - These two work quietly in the background, adding savory depth and complexity without making the gravy taste “saucy.”

• Dijon Mustard - Just a touch sharpens the gravy and balances the richness — you won’t taste mustard, but you’d miss it if it were gone.

• Beef Bouillon - A small amount boosts the savory flavor and helps the gravy taste slow-simmered, even though it comes together quickly.

• Dried Herbs & Spices - Paprika, thyme, oregano, parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes add warmth and subtle earthiness, rounding everything out.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is forgiving and easy to adapt based on what you have on hand.

Simple Substitutions

• No pork tenderloin? Boneless pork chops can work — just pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly.

• Mushroom swap: White mushrooms work in a pinch, though baby bellas provide deeper flavor. A mix of mushrooms is also lovely.

• Beef broth alternative: Chicken broth can be used if needed, though the gravy will be slightly lighter in flavor.

• Soy sauce substitute: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a similar savory effect.

• Butter replacement: You can use all olive oil if needed, but the butter really adds richness and flavor.

Easy Variations

• Add Fresh Herbs: Finish the gravy with chopped fresh thyme or parsley for a brighter, fresher flavor.

• Onion or Shallot Addition: Sauté finely chopped onion or shallot before adding the garlic for extra depth.

• Extra Mushroom Lovers: Double the mushrooms for an even heartier, gravy-forward dish.

• Creamy-Style (Optional): If you prefer, you can stir in a small splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end — just note this changes the character of the gravy.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cooking the pork in batches helps it brown properly instead of steaming.

• Let the pork rest. Tenting the medallions with foil keeps them warm and juicy while you finish the gravy.

• Brown the mushrooms well. Take your time here — golden mushrooms add depth and flavor to the entire dish.

• Whisk the broth in slowly. Adding it gradually helps prevent lumps and gives you a smoother gravy.

• Adjust the thickness to your liking. If the gravy gets too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.

• Taste before serving. With broth, soy sauce, and bouillon, seasoning levels can vary — a final taste ensures everything is perfectly balanced.

I hope this pork tenderloin with mushroom gravy finds a place on your table this winter, whether it’s for a quiet weeknight or a slow, cozy weekend dinner. If you make it, let me know how you served it — and be sure to save the recipe for those cold nights when comfort cooking feels just right.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera – A Fresh Twist with Sonoma Gourmet’s Ricotta Sauce

This Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera combines spring veggies and bowtie pasta with Sonoma Gourmet's Lemon & Herb Ricotta Sauce for a fresh, flavorful weeknight dinner. 

Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera – A Fresh Twist with Sonoma Gourmet’s Ricotta Sauce

There’s something about spring that makes me crave color—on my plate, in my kitchen, and in my mood. The markets are brimming with bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet tomatoes, practically begging to be tossed into a light, vibrant pasta. Pasta Primavera has always been a favorite when the weather warms up and I want something quick yet nourishing, but this time, I stumbled on a little jar of magic that completely changed the game: Sonoma Gourmet’s Lemon & Herb Ricotta Pasta Sauce.

I wasn’t sure what to expect at first—a lemony pasta sauce? But one spoonful and I was hooked. It’s impossibly creamy without being heavy, bright with citrus, and balanced by fresh herbs and mellow ricotta. It felt like it was made for vegetables. I built the dish around that velvety texture and tangy freshness, sautéing mushrooms, yellow peppers, zucchini, and broccoli in olive oil until just tender. Then came the sauce, frozen peas for a pop of sweetness, and bowtie pasta to catch every creamy crevice. A few minutes later, I had a bowlful of spring sunshine, finished with juicy grape tomatoes and torn basil.

If you're looking for a way to shake up your weeknight pasta routine—or impress guests without stress—this dish is it. Sonoma Gourmet’s sauce does the heavy lifting, giving you restaurant-level flavor with barely any effort. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a crisp white wine, and you've got a seasonal masterpiece that tastes as good as it looks.

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce

• Baby Bella mushrooms
• Yellow bell pepper
• Broccoli florets
• Zucchini
• Grape tomatoes
• Fresh basil

Frozen

• Green peas

Pasta & Sauces

• Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• Sonoma Gourmet Lemon & Herb Ricotta Pasta Sauce

Dairy

• Unsalted butter

Oils & Vinegars

• Olive oil

Spices & Seasonings

• Salt
• Black pepper

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Cooking should be flexible—here are a few easy swaps if you're missing an ingredient or want to change things up:

• Pasta:  No bowties? Use penne, rotini, or any short pasta that holds sauce well.

• Vegetables:  Swap in green beans, snap peas, or spinach for any of the veggies listed. Cauliflower also works well in place of broccoli.

• Frozen peas:  Canned peas work in a pinch—just rinse and add them at the end to avoid overcooking.

• Fresh basil:  Use fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning if basil isn’t available.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile—here are a few fun ways to make it your own:

• Add Protein:  Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or sliced Italian sausage for a heartier meal.

• Make it Spicy:  Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a gentle kick.

• Use What’s in Season:  Swap in roasted butternut squash, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes cooked into the sauce if that’s what you’ve got.

• Try a Different Pasta:  Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber, or go gluten-free with your favorite alternative pasta variety.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Reserve your pasta water:  Don’t forget to save a little of the starchy pasta water before draining—it helps loosen the sauce and makes everything cling beautifully to the noodles.

• Don’t overcook the veggies:  For the best texture and color, sauté the vegetables just until crisp-tender. They’ll soften slightly more when combined with the warm sauce.

• Layer your seasoning:  Lightly season the veggies as they cook, then taste and adjust again once everything is combined. A little salt at each step builds better flavor.

• Chop evenly:  Try to keep your veggie pieces around the same size so they cook evenly and look great in the finished dish.

• Serve immediately:  This pasta is best served fresh, when the sauce is hot and silky. Leftovers are still tasty but may need a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

• Storage and Reheating Tips:  Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so it may thicken a bit.  To reheat, place a portion in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or even a bit of milk to loosen the sauce, and stir gently until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between and adding a splash of liquid to keep the texture creamy.  Avoid freezing this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate and the vegetables can become mushy when thawed.

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💬 Let’s Chat!

Did you make this Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you stick with the recipe or add your own twist?  Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @SliceofSouthern—I’d love to see how yours turns out!

Hearty Farmhouse Sausage & Potato Soup

A rustic bowl of comfort—savory sausage, tender potatoes, and garden-fresh veggies.

Hearty Farmhouse Sausage & Potato Soup

There’s something about an unseasonably cold day in LA that makes you crave the kind of meal that wraps you up from the inside out—and this Hearty Farmhouse Sausage & Potato Soup does just that. With the skies unusually gray and a crisp chill in the air, it’s been the kind of weather that makes you reach for an oversized sweater, and a big, steaming bowl of something soothing.  I found this recipe on an old card tucked into one of my mom’s recipe boxes—a little worn, with faded ink, and clearly well-loved.  It displayed the source as "Aunt Grace".  My mom's Aunt Grace lived on a sort of Ranch/Farmhouse in Oklahoma and seeing this brought back loads of memories of a different era.  I knew this would be the perfect soup, something simple, hearty, and made with love.

As the soup bubbled gently on the stove, the kitchen filled with the cozy scent of garlic, herbs, and sausage—instantly transporting me to memories of family dinners from years past. Each ingredient felt like a little nod to home cooking at its best: buttery-soft potatoes, rich sausage, and a colorful mix of veggies that might as well have been pulled from a garden, even if they were picked up at my neighborhood market.  This bowl is comfort food at its coziest—steaming, soul-warming, and wrapped in just enough nostalgia to make you slow down and truly savor it. When the California air turns unexpectedly brisk, there’s nothing better than curling up with a bowl like this—it’s a little taste of home, right when you need it most.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Meat

• Italian sausage - links or ground (link casing will be removed)

Produce

• Onion
• Carrots
• Celery
• Mushrooms
• Baby potatoes
• Garlic

Pantry & Seasoning

• Chicken stock 
• Italian seasoning
• Bay leaf
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

Oils & Basics

• Extra-virgin olive oil

Substitutions and Variations

This soup is wonderfully flexible—perfect for using what you have on hand. Here are a few easy swaps to keep things simple:

Substitutions

• Italian Sausage: Try turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, or use ground beef with a pinch of fennel and chili flakes for a similar flavor.

• Baby Potatoes: Any waxy potato will do—Yukon Golds, red potatoes, or even chopped fingerlings work beautifully.

• Mushrooms: Use whatever variety you like—cremini, white button, or even chopped portobello for a deeper, earthier taste.

• Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary does the trick if you’re out of the pre-mixed blend.

Variations

This Hearty Farmhouse Sausage & Potato Soup is a great base for mixing things up depending on your mood, what’s in the fridge, or who you’re cooking for. Here are a few favorite ways to make it your own:

• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, velvety finish. A handful of grated Parmesan adds an extra cozy touch.

• Greens Galore: Toss in a few handfuls of chopped kale, spinach, or Swiss chard during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a boost of color and nutrients.

• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to turn up the heat just a bit—perfect for those extra-chilly days.

• Herby Upgrade: Add a fresh rosemary sprig or a few thyme sprigs while simmering, then remove before serving for a more aromatic broth.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Chop Ahead: Save time by prepping your veggies earlier in the day—or even the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

• Browning Is Key: Don’t rush the sausage step—browning it well adds tons of depth to the broth. And don’t forget to scrape up any browned bits when you add the broth—they’re flavor gold!

• Cut Evenly: Dice your potatoes and veggies into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly and stay tender without turning mushy.

• Make It Ahead: This soup is even better the next day! The flavors deepen overnight, so go ahead and make a big batch—leftovers reheat beautifully for easy lunches.

• Freeze It: Freeze cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just leave a little room at the top for expansion. Perfect for pulling out on a future chilly day.

What to Serve With It

• Crusty Bread or Biscuits: A thick slice of sourdough or a warm, flaky biscuit is perfect for soaking up every last bit of broth.

• Simple Side Salad: Try a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.

• Rustic Cheese Plate: A small board with sharp cheddar, apple slices, and crackers makes a cozy, farmhouse-style pairing.

This soup is filling enough to stand on its own, but these little extras make it feel like a full, comforting meal—ideal for a slow evening or sharing with friends.

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Hearty Farmhouse Sausage & Potato Soup

serves 8

1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
1 stalk celery, diced
1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken stock
1 pound baby potatoes, diced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and freshly-cracked black pepper

Add sausage to a large pot and cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring and breaking up the meat until lightly browned. Transfer to a separate plate, and set aside. Drain any unwanted fat from the pot.  

Add the olive oil, carrots, onion, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add the mushrooms and garlic, and cook for 4 more minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the chicken stock, potatoes, seasoning, bay leaf, and the cooked sausage. Cook until the soup reaches a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and tender.

Discard the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary.  Serve warm.