Air Fryer Creamy Tuscan Garlic Pork Chops (Dinner Idea)

Air Fryer Creamy Tuscan Garlic Pork Chops

Air Fryer Creamy Tuscan Garlic Pork Chops are the kind of dinner that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing before anyone even sits down at the table. Juicy, golden pork chops are smothered in a creamy garlic sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and spinach — it’s comfort food with a little elegance, but still simple enough for a real-life family dinner.

As a mom and wife, I’m always looking for meals that feel special without turning into a huge production. These pork chops check every box. The air fryer gives the meat a beautiful sear on the outside while keeping it tender and juicy inside, and the creamy Tuscan-style sauce comes together quickly on the stovetop. It’s the kind of dish that looks like you worked all day on it… even if you didn’t.

Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will remember.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy.

You’ll love it because:

  • The pork chops come out juicy with a golden crust
  • The creamy garlic sauce tastes indulgent and comforting
  • Sun-dried tomatoes add a bold, slightly tangy flavor
  • It feels fancy but uses simple ingredients
  • It pairs with so many easy side dishes

It’s perfect for family dinners, date nights at home, or when you just want something extra cozy.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

  • 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Tuscan Garlic Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 1 teaspoon fresh, chopped)
  • ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Air Fryer Creamy Tuscan Garlic Pork Chops ingredients

How to Make Air Fryer Creamy Tuscan Garlic Pork Chops

1. Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them develop a better crust in the air fryer.

Rub both sides with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed for the best flavor in every bite.

2. Air Fry the Pork Chops

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3–5 minutes.

Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–14 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Cooking time may vary depending on thickness.

Once done, remove the pork chops and let them rest while you make the sauce. Resting keeps the juices inside the meat.

3. Start the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it too much.

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. This adds depth and keeps the sauce from being too heavy.

4. Make It Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and basil. Let the sauce gently simmer, stirring often, until it thickens — about 3–5 minutes.

The Parmesan helps thicken the sauce while adding a rich, salty flavor that makes the whole dish taste luxurious.

5. Add Tuscan Flavors

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts into the sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

At this point, the sauce should be creamy, garlicky, and full of color from the tomatoes and greens.

6. Bring It All Together

Return the cooked pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld and the pork warms through.

how to make Air Fryer Creamy Tuscan Garlic Pork Chops

Tips for Juicy Pork Chops

  • Don’t overcook — use a meat thermometer if possible
  • Let the pork rest before adding to the sauce
  • Use thick chops for the juiciest results
  • Flip halfway in the air fryer for even browning

The air fryer seals in moisture while giving you that lightly crisp exterior.

For more pork cooking tips, don’t miss my Ultimate Air Fryer Pork Recipes Guide.

What to Serve With Tuscan Pork Chops

This creamy sauce is too good to waste, so pair it with something that can soak it up.

Family-favorite sides include:

  • Buttered pasta or fettuccine
  • Mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
  • Steamed rice or risotto
  • Crusty bread for dipping
  • Roasted green beans or asparagus

A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also balances the richness nicely.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring the sauce halfway through.

This dish tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to develop.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Creamy Tuscan Garlic Pork Chops are one of those meals that feels like a treat but still fits into everyday life. The juicy pork, rich garlic cream sauce, and pops of sun-dried tomato create a dinner that’s comforting, flavorful, and just a little bit special.

It’s the kind of recipe I pull out when I want everyone at the table to slow down, savor their food, and maybe even ask for seconds — which, in my house, is always the best sign of a winning dinner. 🤍

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