This dish combines tender pork chops cooked in a creamy sauce with delicious cheesy scalloped potatoes. It’s a warm and hearty meal that feels like a cozy hug!
Honestly, who can resist the cheesy goodness of those scalloped potatoes? I love serving this dish with a simple salad to balance out all that creaminess. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless chops, that’s fine too! They will cook a bit faster, so adjust cooking time.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you want a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or whole milk, but remember it won’t be as creamy.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are my go-to for scalloped potatoes due to their starch content which helps create a creamy texture. Yukon Gold works well too, giving a slightly different flavor. But avoid waxy potatoes like red skins.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is great for flavor, but you could substitute with a mild cheddar or even a mix of mozzarella and gouda for a fun twist!
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Keeping pork chops juicy is all about the right cooking method. First, make sure to pat them dry and season well. This helps get that tasty crust you’re after!
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chops to sear. This locks in moisture.
- Avoid cooking on too high heat; medium-high is perfect to brown without drying out.
- Let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them extra tender.
How Do I Layer the Potatoes Properly?
Layering potatoes helps achieve even cooking and flavor distribution. Start by ensuring the first layer is well coated with sauce, which keeps them moist and flavorful.
- Slice the potatoes evenly, about 1/8-inch thick, for uniform cooking. A mandoline slicer can be handy for this!
- Alternate layers of potatoes with cheese and sauce to build flavors; don’t forget to season as you go!
- For the final layer, make sure to pour all the reserved sauce on top. This helps everything cook nicely together.
These tips should help you make a delicious dish that’s packed with flavor and comfort! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 1 hour for baking, giving you a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s a cozy meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps them get that nice golden sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet or ovenproof pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, remove the pork chops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce Base:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Let it melt before adding the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not burned.
4. Prepare the Gravy:
Now, whisk in the flour to the melted butter and garlic. Keep stirring for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing until smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Add Seasoning:
Stir in the dried thyme, along with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavor of your sauce!
6. Layer the Potatoes and Cheese:
Take half of the sauce out of the pan and set it aside. Arrange a layer of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the pan with the sauce. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes and cheese, finally pouring reserved sauce over the top.
7. Add Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to nestle the seared pork chops gently on top of those cheesy potatoes.
8. Top with Parmesan:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the entire dish, giving it a delicious crust.
9. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve it up and enjoy this comforting meal!
This delicious combination of smothered pork chops and cheesy scalloped potatoes is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so adjust your cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind the sauce may not be as rich, but it will still taste great!
