Effortless Excellence: Instant Pot Pork Steaks with Creamy Sour Cream Gravy
Discover the ultimate weeknight dinner solution with our recipe for Instant Pot Pork Steaks. These incredibly flavorful and tender pork steaks are cooked to perfection in your pressure cooker, delivering a rich, satisfying meal in approximately 30 minutes. The magic of the Instant Pot lies in its ability to lock in moisture, ensuring every bite is juicy, while simultaneously building a deep, savory flavor profile. Crowned with a luxurious, creamy sour cream gravy, this one-pot wonder promises minimal prep and maximum enjoyment for the entire family.
When time is of the essence, preparing pork steaks in your Instant Pot is a culinary revelation. This method not only speeds up dinner but also offers incredible flexibility: you don’t even need to thaw your meat beforehand! Whether fresh or frozen, your pork chops will emerge tender and delicious, thanks to the efficiency of pressure cooking. This means less planning and more spontaneity in your meal preparation.
The Instant Pot’s sauté function is a game-changer, allowing you to build foundational flavors right from the start by softening onions in a savory broth. This initial step creates a rich base that infuses the pork with aromatic goodness. Pressure cooking then ensures the pork remains incredibly tender and juicy. The final touch, a simple addition of sour cream, transforms the cooking liquid into an irresistible, velvety gravy that ties the entire dish together.
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Pork Steaks Recipe
- Unbeatable Time-Saving Convenience
Life is busy, and dinner shouldn’t add to the stress. The Instant Pot transforms how you cook pork, delivering fork-tender, perfectly seasoned pork chops in under 30 minutes. Forget lengthy thawing times; this recipe gracefully handles frozen pork chops, requiring only a few extra minutes of cooking. This means you can decide on dinner just moments before you start cooking, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights. - Rich, Velvety, and Flavorful Gravy
What truly elevates this dish is the incredible sour cream gravy. A harmonious blend of sautéed onions, robust beef broth, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce creates a deep, savory foundation. The final swirl of sour cream adds a luxurious creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the rich flavors beautifully. The best part? The Instant Pot creates this intensely flavorful sauce using the natural drippings from the pork, minimizing extra seasoning needs and maximizing taste. - Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a quick and comforting weeknight meal or a dish impressive enough for guests, these Instant Pot pork steaks fit the bill. Their hearty nature and delicious gravy make them a crowd-pleaser. They pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, offering flexibility to suit your preferences and seasonal availability. - Hands-Off Cooking
Once you set the Instant Pot, you’re free to tackle other tasks or simply relax. The pressure cooker handles the cooking with precision, ensuring consistent results without constant monitoring. This hands-off approach makes dinner prep a breeze. - Economical and Satisfying
Pork steaks are often a budget-friendly protein option, and when cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot, they become a truly satisfying meal. This recipe ensures that even simpler cuts of pork become incredibly delicious and comforting.
Key Ingredients & Smart Substitutions
Crafting the perfect Instant Pot pork steaks begins with understanding each ingredient and its role in building flavor:
- Butter, Ghee, or Coconut Oil: These fats are essential for sautéing the onions, establishing the foundational flavor of your gravy.
- Butter: Offers a classic, rich, and creamy taste.
- Ghee: Provides a slightly nutty, caramelized depth and is a great option for those with lactose sensitivities.
- Coconut Oil: A fantastic dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle sweetness.
- Olive Oil: A readily available and versatile choice for a lighter flavor.
- Onions: When sautéed, onions become sweet and aromatic, forming the delicious base of the gravy.
- Yellow Onions: Recommended for their balanced sweetness and sharpness when cooked.
- White or Red Onions: Can be used, though red onions may impart a slightly stronger flavor and color.
- Pork Chops (or Pork Steaks): The star of our dish. The beauty of Instant Pot cooking is its ability to tenderize various cuts.
- Bone-in or Boneless: Both work beautifully. Bone-in chops often yield more flavor and stay juicier.
- Thickness: Aim for chops between ½” to ¾” thick for optimal cooking time. See our “Pro Tip” below for thinner or thicker cuts. Common cuts include blade steaks, center-cut chops, loin chops, and pork sirloin steaks.
- Beef Broth or Stock: Crucial for deglazing the pot and creating a deeply savory gravy.
- Beef Broth/Stock: Delivers the richest, most robust flavor.
- Chicken or Vegetable Stock: Suitable alternatives if beef broth is unavailable, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. Ensure low-sodium options for better control over seasoning.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A potent flavor enhancer, adding tanginess, sweetness, and a complex umami depth to the gravy.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: Excellent gluten-free substitutes that provide similar savory notes.
- Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder (Optional Thickener): Used to achieve a perfectly thick, luxurious gravy.
- Cornstarch/Arrowroot: Creates a glossy, smooth sauce.
- Low-Carb/Keto Option: If you’re avoiding starches, you can skip these and simply reduce the cooking liquid using the sauté function until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Sour Cream: The key ingredient for that signature creamy, tangy gravy.
- Full-Fat Sour Cream: Provides the best texture and flavor.
- Dairy-Free Alternatives: Coconut cream or plant-based sour cream can be used for dietary needs, though they may slightly alter the taste.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to taste.
- While broth and Worcestershire sauce contribute significant flavor, a pinch of salt and pepper at the end can enhance the overall balance.
- Dried Parsley (Optional Garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
🎯 Pro Tip for Pork Chops
While the Instant Pot is incredibly forgiving, for the best results with Instant Pot pork chops, whether fresh or frozen, aim for chops at least ½” in thickness. Avoid chops thinner than ½” as they can become overcooked and dry under pressure.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
Feel free to get creative with your Instant Pot pork steaks! Here are some ideas to customize the recipe to your taste:
- Herb-Infused Gravy: Elevate the aromatic profile by adding a sprig of fresh rosemary or a few sprigs of thyme to the broth before pressure cooking. Dried herbs like Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence can also be stirred into the gravy at the end.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce into the broth. A teaspoon of smoked paprika can also add both warmth and a smoky depth.
- Earthy Mushroom Gravy: Sauté sliced cremini or button mushrooms with the onions for an extra layer of earthy, umami flavor. Add a touch of garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for an even richer taste.
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the Instant Pot after the onions have softened, and sauté for another minute until fragrant. This will infuse the entire dish with a wonderful garlic aroma and flavor.
- Cheesy Indulgence: Stir in a handful of shredded Parmesan, sharp cheddar, or Gruyère cheese with the sour cream for a decadent, cheesy gravy.
- Tangy Apple-Cider Pork Chops: Replace half of the beef broth with apple cider and add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for a sweet and tangy twist that complements pork beautifully.
- Creamy Dijon Gravy: Whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard with the sour cream for a subtle, tangy, and sophisticated flavor.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Pork Steaks
To prepare this delicious Instant Pot pork steaks recipe, you’ll need just a few key pieces of kitchen equipment:
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker): This is the star of the show, making quick work of tenderizing pork and building complex flavors. Any model, from a 6-quart to an 8-quart, will work effectively.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: Crucial for ensuring your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145ºF (63ºC) while remaining juicy.
- Whisk: Essential for smoothly incorporating the cornstarch (if using) and sour cream into the gravy, ensuring a lump-free, velvety consistency.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For preparing the onions and any other ingredients.
- Serving Platter: To beautifully present your finished pork steaks.
How to Make Tender Instant Pot Pork Steaks: A Detailed Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping Instant Pot pork steak dinner:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by selecting the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot. Add your chosen fat (butter, ghee, or oil) to the inner pot and allow it to heat. Once the pot displays “HOT” (or after a few minutes), add the thinly sliced onions. Stir occasionally, allowing them to soften and become translucent, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base.
- Deglaze for Maximum Flavor: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Use a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula to carefully scrape up any browned bits that may have stuck to the bottom of the pot. This process, known as deglazing, not only adds incredible depth of flavor to your gravy but also prevents the “burn notice” error that can occur during pressure cooking.
🎯 Important: Deglaze to Prevent “Burn Notice”
Always ensure your Instant Pot is thoroughly deglazed before proceeding to pressure cooking. Browned bits stuck to the bottom can trigger the “burn notice,” interrupting your cooking process and potentially burning your food.
- Add Pork & Pressure Cook: Gently nestle your pork chops (whether thawed or frozen) directly over the onions and broth in the Instant Pot. Close the lid securely and set the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” (High Pressure) and set the timer for 8 minutes. (Refer to our “Pro Tips” for adjusting time for thicker or frozen chops).
- Natural & Quick Release: Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to natural pressure release (NPR) for 10 minutes. This helps the pork reabsorb juices, making it exceptionally tender. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position for a quick release (QR) of any remaining pressure. Once the floating valve drops, it’s safe to open the lid.
- Check Temperature & Rest Pork: Carefully remove the cooked pork chops to a clean plate and loosely tent them with foil to keep them warm while you finish the gravy. Use an instant-read thermometer to verify that the internal temperature of the thickest part of the pork chops has reached 145ºF (63ºC).
- Craft the Creamy Gravy: With the pork chops resting, it’s time to transform the cooking liquid into our luscious gravy.
- To Thicken with Cornstarch (Traditional Method): In a small bowl, whisk 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until a smooth slurry forms. Add this slurry to the liquid in the Instant Pot while stirring continuously over the “Sauté” function (if desired, or simply stirring with residual heat). The gravy will begin to thicken as it gently simmers.
- To Thicken for Low-Carb/Keto (No Cornstarch): If omitting starch, press “Cancel” on your Instant Pot, then select “Sauté” again. Allow the liquid to simmer and reduce for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Finish with Sour Cream & Serve: Once the gravy has thickened to your liking, turn off the Instant Pot. Stir in the ½ cup of sour cream until it is completely smooth and creamy. Do not boil the gravy after adding sour cream, as it can curdle. Return the rested pork chops to the pot, briefly coating them in the rich gravy. Serve immediately, generously spooning the creamy sour cream gravy over each pork steak, and sprinkle with optional dried parsley for a fresh finish.
Low Carb & Keto Instant Pot Pork Chops
This Instant Pot pork steak recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Each serving, as prepared, contains just 4 net carbs. To make it even lower in carbs, simply omit the cornstarch or arrowroot powder when thickening the sauce. Instead, use the sauté function to simmer and reduce the cooking liquid until it reaches your desired consistency. This method creates a rich, concentrated sauce without added starches, keeping the dish perfectly keto-friendly.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Pork Steaks
These Instant Pot pork steaks with their creamy gravy are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Classic Comfort Sides:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The perfect canvas for soaking up every last drop of that delicious sour cream gravy.
- Fluffy Steamed Rice: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes that still soaks up the sauce wonderfully.
- Buttered Egg Noodles: A hearty and comforting choice that complements the richness of the gravy.
- Homemade Biscuits or Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up the incredible sauce. Consider our easy homemade biscuit recipe with self-rising flour.
- Vegetable Pairings:
- Sautéed Green Beans: Simple, fresh, and a great contrasting texture.
- Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli: A healthy and flavorful addition that adds vibrant color.
- Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness provides a lovely balance to the savory pork.
- Creamed Spinach: A decadent green vegetable option that pairs well with rich gravies.
- Heartier Sides:
- Instant Pot Loaded Potato Casserole: For an extra indulgent meal, this recipe offers a complete and satisfying side.
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms directly on top of your pork steaks for an extra layer of umami.
- Beverage Pairings:
- Iced Tea: A refreshing non-alcoholic choice.
- Light White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio can cut through the richness of the gravy.
- Lager or Pale Ale: A light beer can also be a good pairing.
- Dessert Ideas:
- Apple Crisp: The tartness of apples provides a perfect end to a rich meal.
- Vanilla Pudding: A simple, creamy dessert that complements the meal without being too heavy.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh and light option.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting FAQs
Even seasoned cooks can benefit from a few expert tips and answers to common questions about making Instant Pot pork steaks:
The most reliable way is to use a quick-read or instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the pork chop (avoiding the bone if bone-in). Pork is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF (63ºC). Remember that the temperature may rise slightly after resting.
Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Begin by sautéing the onions in a large skillet following step 1. Remove the onions temporarily. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, then transfer them to a plate and cover. Deglaze the pan with broth and Worcestershire sauce. Return the pork chops to the skillet and simmer gently, covered, until they reach an internal temperature of 145ºF (typically 5-10 minutes). Finally, remove the pork, then whisk in cornstarch and sour cream to the pan liquid as directed in the recipe for your gravy.
Yes, as written, they are low in carbs. For an even lower-carb or keto-friendly version, simply omit the cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Instead, reduce the sauce over the sauté function until it thickens to your desired consistency. This method concentrates the flavors beautifully without adding starches.
The beauty of the Instant Pot is its ability to tenderize various cuts of pork chops or pork steaks. While different cuts have varying amounts of fat and slight flavor differences, they all work well under pressure. Popular choices include:
- Bone-in or Boneless Loin Chops: Lean and tender.
- Blade Steaks (Pork Shoulder Steaks): Often more marbled, yielding incredibly juicy results.
- Sirloin Chops: A good balance of flavor and tenderness.
The pressure cooking method ensures that even tougher or leaner cuts become wonderfully tender and moist, so feel free to choose based on your preference or what’s available and economical.
Store any leftover Instant Pot pork steaks and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of extra broth or water if the gravy has become too thick. You can also reheat them in the microwave, using short intervals to prevent overcooking.
The “Burn” notice usually appears when food is sticking to the bottom of the pot, causing it to overheat. This is often due to not deglazing thoroughly after sautéing the onions. Always ensure all browned bits are scraped from the bottom of the pot before sealing and pressure cooking. Adding enough liquid is also crucial.
More Easy Dinner Ideas to Explore
If you loved the ease and flavor of these Instant Pot Pork Steaks, you’ll definitely want to try these other simple and delicious dinner recipes:
- Mini Pulled Pork Sliders
- Fried Rice with Chicken and Shrimp
- Butter Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti
- Blackstone Dinner Recipes
Conclusion
In summary, these Instant Pot pork steaks with creamy sour cream gravy offer a fantastic blend of convenience, rich flavor, and hearty satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dinner to share, this recipe is designed to impress with minimal effort. Its ability to cook pork from frozen and produce a luscious gravy makes it a true culinary hero. We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of the Instant Pot yourself. If you do, please leave a 🌟 star rating and share your thoughts in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback helps us and other home cooks!
Instant Pot Pork Steaks
Renae Gerhardstein
Pin
Main Course, Dinner
American
4
servings
15 minutes
6 minutes
5 minutes
26 minutes
312
Equipment
-
Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
Ingredients
-
1 tablespoon butter, ghee, or coconut oil -
1 large onion, thinly sliced into slivers -
4 pork chops, 1/2″ to 3/4″ thick (for frozen or chops thicker than 3/4″, see recipe notes below) -
1 cup beef broth or stock (can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth) -
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce -
2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional for low carb or keto) -
½ cup sour cream -
1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Turn the Instant Pot on to the sauté mode. Add the ghee, butter, or oil to heat. When the pot is ready (mine says HOT), add the onions. Stir occasionally, sautéing until they are softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and Worcestershire sauce, allowing the pan to deglaze by stirring until the bottom of the pan is smooth and clear. Deglazing your Instant Pot before pressure cooking will help to avoid the “burn notice” that occurs when food burns on the bottom of the pot.
- Lay your pork chops right over the onions and broth. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure valve to close. Set the pressure cooker to high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Once the pressure cooking is done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes. Then perform a quick release by carefully turning the lever. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that pork chops are 145º F.
- Remove pork chops to a plate and cover. For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with cold water and whisk until it’s creamy and smooth, then stir into the pot. To thicken without the cornstarch, press cancel and set pot to saute for 5 minutes to reduce the stock, for a low carb or keto sauce.
- Turn off pot and add sour cream. Stir until a smooth, creamy gravy sauce forms. Dip the pork chops back into the pot. Serve pork chops with sour cream gravy poured over and sprinkled with dried parsley.
Video
For a visual guide, check out our Instant Pot Sour Cream Pork Chops video tutorial below:
Notes
- For pork chops that are thicker than ¾” or frozen solid, increase the pressure cooking time by 2 minutes. Always allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release (NPR) to ensure tenderness.
- While thinly cut pork chops can be used in the Instant Pot, we recommend avoiding those thinner than ½” in thickness to prevent them from becoming dry or tough.
- Remember to thoroughly deglaze your Instant Pot after sautéing the onions and before pressure cooking. This crucial step helps prevent the dreaded “burn notice” by ensuring no food particles are sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Herb-infused gravy: Add rosemary or thyme to the broth for a fresh, earthy flavor.
- Spicy twist: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.
- Mushroom gravy: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy, umami-rich addition to the sauce.
Understanding Pork Chop Cuts:
- Common pork chop and steak cuts include: Blade steaks, Center-cut chops, Loin chops, Boneless chops, and Pork sirloin steaks.
- The Instant Pot’s pressure and steam cooking method makes it forgiving with various cuts, ensuring moist and tender results even from leaner or tougher selections. Choose based on your preference or what’s readily available.
Storing Instructions:
- Store leftover Instant Pot pork chops and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy needs thinning.
Nutrition
Serving:
1
pork chop
|
Calories:
312
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
5
g
|
Protein:
31
g
|
Fat:
18
g
|
Saturated Fat:
8
g
|
Cholesterol:
112
mg
|
Sodium:
247
mg
|
Potassium:
704
mg
|
Fiber:
1
g
|
Sugar:
2
g
|
Vitamin A:
268
IU
|
Vitamin C:
2
mg
|
Calcium:
52
mg
|
Iron:
1
mg