Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a satisfying and comforting dinner that’s loaded with flavor? These Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops paired with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes make for the perfect combination. The juicy, seared pork chops are coated with a rich garlic-Parmesan crust, while the cheesy scalloped potatoes are layered with creamy, melted cheese and baked until bubbly. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend meal that everyone will love. Follow along to discover how to make this hearty dish, along with tips for ingredient swaps, variations, and serving ideas!

What Are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

This dish combines the savory goodness of Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with the creamy, cheesy indulgence of Scalloped Potatoes. The pork chops are seared and then baked with a crunchy Parmesan and garlic crust, while the potatoes are thinly sliced, layered, and baked in a rich cheese sauce. The result is a perfectly balanced meal that combines crispy, tender pork with soft, cheesy potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredients List for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

For the Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Substitutions and Variations

This recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Pork Chop Options:
   You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops depending on your preference. Bone-in chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while boneless chops cook faster. You can also substitute the pork with chicken breasts or thighs for a different protein option.
2. Cheese Variations:
   Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the scalloped potatoes. Gruyère, fontina, or Gouda can be great substitutes for cheddar, adding more depth to the flavor. You can also mix in cream cheese or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
3. Herb Variations:
   Swap out the oregano and thyme for other herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil. Fresh herbs add more vibrant flavor, but dried herbs work perfectly if you don’t have fresh on hand.
4. Lighter Option:
   For a lighter version of the scalloped potatoes, you can replace the heavy cream with milk or a milk alternative like almond milk. However, using milk will result in a slightly thinner sauce. You can also use a lower-fat cheese option if preferred.
5. Add Veggies:
   For an extra nutritious boost, add thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to the scalloped potatoes. You could also toss in some peas or sautéed broccoli on the side for added texture and flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

For the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops:

1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Coating:
   In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, minced garlic, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden crust.
4. Top with Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
   After searing, turn off the heat and sprinkle the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each pork chop. Press it lightly into the meat.
5. Bake the Pork Chops:
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes (depending on the thickness of your pork chops) until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If desired, you can broil the pork chops for the last 2 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden top.
6. Rest and Serve:
   Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain the juices. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

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For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (if you haven't already for the pork chops). Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch thick rounds. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Create the Roux:
   Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes, then slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Stir until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
   Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and dried thyme. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes:
   In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
6. Bake the Scalloped Potatoes:
   Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Let the scalloped potatoes cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired.

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How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sear and Bake Pork Chops: Season and sear the pork chops, then bake them with a garlic Parmesan coating.
2. Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes: Layer thinly sliced potatoes with a rich cheese sauce and bake until golden and bubbly.
3. Bake and Serve: Bake both dishes until fully cooked and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pork Chops:
   Overcooking pork chops can result in dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and no higher.
2. Thin Cheese Sauce:
   If your cheese sauce is too thin, you may not have cooked the roux long enough. Be sure to let the flour cook for 2-3 minutes before adding the cream to thicken the sauce.
3. Uneven Potato Slices:
   If the potato slices are uneven, some will cook faster than others. To avoid this, use a mandoline or carefully slice the potatoes as uniformly as possible.
4. Skipping the Resting Time:
   Letting the pork chops and scalloped potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors settle and allows the dishes to firm up slightly for better presentation.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

This dish is hearty and indulgent, so it pairs beautifully with lighter sides and garnishes. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Serve with a Green Vegetable:
   A side of roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed green beans adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the pork chops and scalloped potatoes.
2. Add a Simple Salad:
   Serve a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette on the side to balance out the richness of the dish.
3. Top with Fresh Herbs:
   Garnish the pork chops with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of color and freshness. Chives or parsley sprinkled on the scalloped potatoes also add a nice touch.
4. Rustic Plating:
   Present the meal family-style by serving the pork chops on a large wooden board with a side dish of scalloped potatoes in a rustic baking dish. Let guests serve themselves for a warm, inviting presentation.

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How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• As a Complete Meal: Serve the pork chops and scalloped potatoes together for a filling, balanced meal. Add a light vegetable or salad on the side.
• As a Fancy Dinner: Elevate the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or serve on elegant dinnerware for a more formal occasion.

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Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Garnish with Herbs: Add a pop of color by garnishing the pork chops with parsley and the scalloped potatoes with fresh chives or thyme.
2. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: Serve the pork chops directly from the cast-iron skillet for a rustic, yet elegant presentation.
3. Layered Serving Dish: Present the scalloped potatoes in a beautiful ceramic or glass baking dish to show off the layers of creamy potatoes and golden cheese.

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Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can assemble the scalloped potatoes a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
• Make Extra Cheese Sauce: If you love extra cheesy potatoes, double the cheese sauce recipe for a richer, creamier dish.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the pork chops' internal temperature.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. The pork chops can also be seared ahead, but it’s best to bake them fresh to maintain their crispy coating.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: While you can freeze the pork chops, the scalloped potatoes might not retain their texture well after freezing. For best results, store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork chops and scalloped potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: Can I use different cheeses for the scalloped potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or fontina for a different flavor profile. You can also mix multiple cheeses for a more complex flavor.

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Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal, combining crispy, tender pork with creamy, cheesy potatoes. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a special occasion, with plenty of options for customization. Whether you’re enjoying the hearty flavors or savoring the rich textures, this meal is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying dinner that’s easy to make and impossible to resist!

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