Garlic Pork Bites

Ingredients Breakdown

Pork

• 4 boneless pork chops (approximately 2 pounds), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Sauce

• ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Pork:
   Season the pork pieces evenly with onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Sear the Pork:
   Heat olive oil in a large, 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the pork pieces and sear for 3-5 minutes on all sides, cooking until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (about 13-15 minutes total).
   Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Tent it to keep warm.

3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
   Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Add the Liquids:
   Slowly pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese, whisking continuously. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
   Let the sauce simmer for 5-8 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.

5. Combine Pork and Sauce:
   Add the cooked pork back to the skillet and toss to coat the pork in the creamy sauce. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to ensure everything is well combined and heated through.

6. Serve:
   Serve the creamy parmesan pork bites immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra parmesan if desired.

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Pro Tips

• Thickness of Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. If it gets too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of extra lemon juice for a tangy kick, or toss in some fresh parsley for a pop of color.

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Perfect Pairings

• Sides: Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the creamy richness of the sauce.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pork: Be sure not to overcook the pork as it can dry out. Check the internal temperature to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
• Not Simmering the Sauce Long Enough: The sauce needs time to thicken and allow the flavors to develop. Don't rush this step.

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FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can use pork tenderloin or pork loin in place of chops. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the pork and sauce separately and reheat them together just before serving.

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Final Thoughts

These Creamy Parmesan Pork Bites are rich, flavorful, and packed with savory goodness! The tender pork combined with the velvety sauce makes for a perfect dish that's sure to please the whole family.