Why Make This Recipe
Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting meal that combines tender pork chops with creamy, cheesy potatoes. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it brings everyone together around the table. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it great for both novice and experienced cooks. You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when needed, allowing you to enjoy more time with friends and family.
How to Make Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless pork chops
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 small onion thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the pork chops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir continuously until lightly browned and well incorporated, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the dried thyme, paprika, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Grease a large baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Place the browned pork chops over the potatoes. Layer the remaining potatoes on top of the pork chops.
- Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top layer of potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Serve this casserole hot from the oven. It makes a great main dish alongside a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables. For added flavor, consider offering a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.
How to Store Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
- You can use any type of cheese you like. Monterey Jack or Gruyère can be great additions to the flavor.
- For extra creaminess, try adding a bit of cream cheese to the cheese sauce.
- Thinly sliced potatoes will cook evenly and become tender. A mandoline slicer can help with this.
Variation
If you’re looking to make a healthier version, consider substituting the pork chops with boneless skinless chicken breasts or using a mix of root vegetables instead of potatoes.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use a different kind of meat?
Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or even a meatless option like mushrooms can work well in this casserole.
3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. A fork should easily pierce through the layers.
4. Is it necessary to cover the casserole while baking?
Yes, covering the casserole with foil helps to steam the potatoes and cook them through. Remove it towards the end to let the top brown.
Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty casserole features tender pork chops layered with creamy, cheesy potatoes, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless pork chops
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the pork chops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir continuously until lightly browned, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in dried thyme, paprika, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Grease a large baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Place the browned pork chops over potatoes. Layer remaining potatoes on top of pork.
- Pour remaining cheese sauce over the top layer of potatoes. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American