This Pork Chop Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that brings together juicy pork chops, creamy soup, and fluffy rice, all baked together for a wonderful flavor. It’s a simple meal perfect for any night!
Honestly, this dish is like a big hug in a casserole dish. It’s one of those meals that makes leftovers taste even better. I love enjoying it with a side salad for a complete dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless or thicker cuts, feel free to swap them out, but adjust cooking time as needed. I find that bone-in has a juicier bite!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add a savory depth. If you’re not a fan, you can use canned mushrooms or even substitute with bell peppers for a different taste.
Cream: Heavy cream gives richness, but sour cream is a lighter option for tanginess. If you want a dairy-free swap, use coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream alternative.
Rice: While it’s optional, I love adding rice for a complete meal. Quinoa or cauliflower rice works well if you want a healthier or gluten-free alternative.
How Do You Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops to perfection is key to this casserole. Start by getting a good sear; it locks in juices. Remember, don’t rush it!
- Preheat your skillet until hot before adding oil. This helps create that nice, golden crust on the pork.
- Cook the chops in batches if your skillet is crowded; avoid steaming them.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for 145°F (63°C) internal temperature for juicy chops.
With these tips, your casserole will be mouthwatering and everyone will come back for seconds! Enjoy your cooking!
Delicious Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 bone-in pork chops
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, if you want rice in the casserole)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole requires about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the casserole when it’s time to bake!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Season both sides of your pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. The paprika adds a lovely color and flavor!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat your olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops. Brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until you see a nice golden crust. After browning, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onions and sliced mushrooms. Sauté these until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms are browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step adds great flavor to your casserole!
5. Add Garlic:
Once the onions and mushrooms are ready, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3 minutes, which helps concentrate the flavors.
7. Combine with Cream:
Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream (or sour cream) and dried thyme. Cook this until it’s well combined and slightly thickened.
8. Joining the Rice (if using):
If you’re adding rice, stir it into the creamy sauce mixture to soak up all that yummy flavor!
9. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the creamy mushroom mixture into a baking dish. Place your browned pork chops on top of the mixture, making sure they’re nestled in nicely.
10. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color. Enjoy your comforting pork chop casserole warm, ideally paired with some steamed veggies or a fresh salad!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well too! Just be aware that they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option, sour cream is a great substitute. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a non-dairy yogurt to maintain the creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli. Just sauté them in the skillet along with the onions and mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the creamy texture.