Pork Marsala is a tasty dish featuring tender pork cooked in a rich, sweet Marsala wine sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and sounds fancy, but it’s simple to make!
Whenever I whip up this dish, the smell of the wine and herbs fills my kitchen, making everyone curious about dinner! Pair it with some mashed potatoes, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose boneless pork chops for tenderness. If you want a leaner option, try using chicken breasts instead. They cook similarly and soak up the sauce well.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a robust flavor, but white button mushrooms work just as well. For a twist, you could use shiitake mushrooms for a unique taste.
Marsala Wine: Marsala wine is key to this dish’s flavor. If you don’t have it, a dry sherry or Madeira can work as substitutes. Just keep in mind they may alter the dish’s flavor slightly.
Heavy Cream: This is optional, but it makes the sauce creamier. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip it or use half-and-half instead.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the pork chops just right is crucial! Here’s how:
- Pat Them Dry: This helps achieve a good sear. Moisture can steam the meat instead.
- Dredge Lightly: Don’t overload the chops with flour. A light coating will give a nice crust without being too heavy.
- Monitor the Heat: Use medium-high heat for a good sear. If the heat is too low, they’ll cook too slowly and not brown properly.
- Check for Doneness: Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F. A meat thermometer is a great tool for this.
By following these steps, your pork will be juicy and flavorful every time!
How to Make Pork Marsala
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
For the Sauce:
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup Marsala wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Pork Marsala recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it a tasty option for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry using paper towels. This is important since it helps the seasoning stick. Then, season both sides of each chop generously with salt and pepper. Next, take the flour and place it in a shallow dish, and coat each chop lightly in the flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. When the skillet is nice and hot, add the pork chops. Sear the chops until they are golden brown and cooked through, which will be about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Once cooked, move them to a plate and cover them to keep them warm while you make the sauce.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and browned. This helps enhance their flavor!
4. Add Garlic and Sauce Ingredients:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to lift up any tasty browned bits. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook until it reduces by about half, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
5. Finish the Sauce:
If you want a creamier sauce (and who wouldn’t?), stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for another 2 minutes until thickened. This step is optional, but it really adds a nice richness!
6. Combine Everything:
Carefully return the pork chops and any juices that have accumulated to the skillet. Spoon the mushroom sauce over the top of the chops, and let everything heat through for a minute or two.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your Pork Marsala with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately, ideally with some delicious mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad on the side. Enjoy your scrumptious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken breasts or thighs for the pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as chicken may require a few extra minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce Without Cream?
If you prefer to skip the cream, you can thicken the sauce by simmering it longer to reduce it further. Alternatively, you can make a slurry with cornstarch and water, adding it slowly to the sauce until you reach your desired thickness.
Can I Make This Recipe Healthy?
Definitely! You can use less butter or replace some of the oil with a healthier option like vegetable or avocado oil. For a thinner sauce, skip the heavy cream and only use chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
What Should I Serve with Pork Marsala?
Pork Marsala pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
