This comforting dish combines juicy pork chops with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. It’s a warm hug in a casserole dish! Perfect for family dinners.
What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make everything in one pan. Less mess means more time to relax and enjoy the meal. Plus, it’s really satisfying! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are fantastic for this dish. They add flavor and stay juicy. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops will work too. Just adjust the cooking time, as they cook faster.
Potatoes: Use medium to starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffy texture. If you want less starch, go for Yukon Golds. You could also use sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor.
Milk/Cream: Whole milk gives a nice creamy texture, but you can also use half-and-half for a richer sauce or even almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free version.
Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Gruyère or mozzarella can also work, and even a vegan cheese option if you want to keep it dairy-free.
Onion: Adding sliced onion is optional, but it gives a lovely sweetness. If onions aren’t your thing, you can leave them out or use shallots for a milder flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops properly prevents them from drying out. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot. A good sear creates flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook chops in batches if necessary.
- Aim for about 2-3 minutes per side until nice and golden.
- If you want extra flavor, let the chops rest for a few minutes after searing; this keeps them juicy.
Perfectly seared pork chops complement the creamy potatoes beautifully, making the whole casserole a hit! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for seasoning pork chops)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 1 hour of cooking time. You’ll spend time preparing everything and then let it bake in the oven, letting the flavors blend beautifully. Total time from start to table is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, perfect for a hearty family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your casserole once everything is assembled.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Then, stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux, which helps thicken the sauce. Gradually pour in the milk or cream, whisking constantly to ensure there are no lumps. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and thyme. If you’re using cheese, mix it in until everything is melted and smooth.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly grease a baking dish (a 9×13 inch dish works well). Start by arranging half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. If you’re using onions, add them as a layer on top. Next, pour half of the creamy sauce over this layer. Then, place the remaining potato slices on top and pour the rest of the sauce over everything, covering it nicely.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This helps the potatoes soften in the creamy sauce.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
While the casserole is baking, season your pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown.
6. Combine and Finish Baking:
After 40 minutes, remove the foil from the casserole and carefully place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. The pork chops should be fully cooked (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C) and the potatoes should be tender.
7. Broil for Golden Deliciousness:
If you’d like a golden top, turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired. Dig into the juicy pork chops and the creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Enjoy making this warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Yes! While bone-in pork chops are recommended for their flavor and juiciness, you can use boneless pork chops or even pork loin if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of cooking times, as boneless will cook faster.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven, or use a microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help bring back some creaminess if it appears dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the pork chops with a vegetarian protein like cooked lentils or sautéed mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of milk for the sauce, and consider using dairy-free cheese if desired. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
