Pork Marsala is a tasty dish made with tender pork chops cooked in a rich, sweet Marsala wine sauce. It’s hearty and perfect for dinner!
The best part? The flavor is out of this world! I love serving it with mashed potatoes to soak up that yummy sauce. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are great for this dish as they cook quickly and are tender. If you need a substitute, turkey cutlets work well too. Just adjust cooking time as they might cook faster.
Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms are an excellent choice too. If you want a twist, try using shiitake mushrooms for a more earthy taste.
Marsala Wine: This sweet wine is key for that authentic flavor. If you don’t have it, try using sherry or port as a substitute. Just keep in mind it may change the flavor slightly.
Chicken Broth: Swap out for vegetable broth if you need a lighter option or to keep it vegetarian. This may also mellow the flavor, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
How Do You Easily Prepare the Sauce without Burning the Garlic?
The sauce is an important part of this dish, and getting it right can be tricky. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- After sautéing mushrooms, lower the heat before adding garlic. Garlic cooks faster than mushrooms, and you want it soft and fragrant, not burnt.
- Don’t forget to scrape the pan – those brown bits are flavor! Using a wooden spoon helps lift them as the wine goes in.
- Let the sauce simmer patiently. Keep an eye on it, and stir occasionally to avoid sticking at the bottom.
With these tips, your sauce will be rich and flavorful, making your Pork Marsala shine!
How to Make Pork Marsala
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- For the Sauce:
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: lemon juice (a splash for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pork Marsala takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, and then about 15-20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This step adds flavor right from the start!
2. Dredge in Flour:
Put the flour in a shallow dish or plate. Take each pork chop and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any extra. This will create a lovely crust when you cook them!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the pork chops. Cook them until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, take the pork chops out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Mushrooms:
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once it melts, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms until they’re browned and softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Next, add the minced garlic and thyme to the skillet with mushrooms. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
6. Make the Sauce:
Carefully pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth. Use a spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce bubble away, reducing by half for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening just a bit!
7. Return Pork Chops to Skillet:
Place the cooked pork chops back in the skillet, spooning some of that beautiful sauce and mushrooms over the top. Let them heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
8. Final Touches:
Check your seasoning. You can add more salt and pepper if desired. For a fresh zing, add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce. This really uplifts the flavors!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Pork Marsala right away, with sides that soak up that amazing sauce—mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes are fantastic choices!
Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chops may take a little longer to cook through completely. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Marsala Wine?
If you don’t have Marsala wine, sherry or even a sweet red wine can work as substitutes. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Pork Marsala in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Mushrooms?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out entirely. For added flavor and texture, consider using spinach or asparagus as an alternative.
