Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion? This Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the answer! Juicy pork chops are baked alongside tender, cheesy scalloped potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. This one-pan wonder is a comforting classic that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. The combination of perfectly seasoned pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes makes for a hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Read on to learn how to make this savory, soul-warming recipe!

What Is Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes?

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes is a classic baked dish featuring succulent pork chops cooked alongside creamy scalloped potatoes. The potatoes are sliced thin and baked in a rich sauce made from milk or cream, cheese, and seasonings. As the dish bakes, the potatoes absorb the creamy sauce, becoming tender and flavorful, while the pork chops cook to juicy perfection. This recipe is a satisfying one-dish meal that can be prepared in just a few easy steps.

Ingredients List for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this hearty, comforting dish:

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color and flavor)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (russet or Yukon gold work best)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Gruyère)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon thyme (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Ingredients List (Optional Add-ons or Variations)

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (for added smokiness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (stir into the cream sauce for tanginess)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky kick)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)

Substitutions and Variations

This Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe is versatile, allowing you to make substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Bone-in vs. Boneless Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops, depending on what you have on hand. Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but boneless chops work great, too.
• Cheese Variations: You can swap cheddar for other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for extra richness.
• Creamy vs. Light: If you want to lighten the dish, use half-and-half or just milk instead of heavy cream. Alternatively, for an ultra-creamy version, use more cream in place of some of the milk.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the pork chops and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli to make a delicious vegetarian scalloped potatoes dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture over both sides of the pork chops.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. You don’t need to cook them through, just get a nice sear on both sides. Once seared, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce for the Potatoes

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.

Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups of milk and ½ cup of heavy cream (if using), cooking for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce

Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper, and then pour half of the cheese sauce over the top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and the rest of the cheese sauce. Make sure the potatoes are fully covered in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add the Pork Chops

Place the seared pork chops on top of the layered potatoes and sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to help the potatoes cook evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese (or any other toppings like breadcrumbs or extra cheddar), and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops are fully cooked through (the internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C)).

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the pork chops and scalloped potatoes are done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

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

Here’s a quick recap of how to cook this hearty dish:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Season and sear the pork chops until golden brown, then set them aside.
3. Make the creamy sauce by sautéing onions, making a roux, and adding milk, cream, and cheese.
4. Layer the potatoes in the baking dish with the sauce.
5. Add the pork chops on top of the potatoes.
6. Bake covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Let the dish rest, garnish, and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes:

• Not Searing the Pork Chops: Searing the pork chops before baking helps to lock in moisture and adds extra flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Using Uneven Potato Slices: Make sure to slice your potatoes evenly, about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick. Thicker slices may take longer to cook and can result in unevenly baked potatoes.
• Skipping the Resting Time: After baking, let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and ensures everything stays juicy and flavorful.
• Overcooking the Pork Chops: Pork chops can dry out if overcooked. Be sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and then remove them from the oven.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside some light sides to balance the richness. Here are some serving ideas:

• Family-Style Serving: Serve the dish straight from the baking pan for a cozy, family-style presentation.
• Individual Plates: Serve each pork chop with a generous scoop of scalloped potatoes, making sure to drizzle some of the extra creamy sauce over the top.
• Accompaniments: Pair the dish with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to Serve Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

To serve Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes:

• Place a pork chop on each plate and spoon a generous portion of the scalloped potatoes alongside.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with a light side salad or vegetable dish to complete the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

To elevate the presentation of this classic dish:

• Garnish generously with fresh parsley or thyme for added color and flavor.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus to add vibrant color to the plate.
• Use a large white serving dish to make the golden-brown potatoes and pork chops stand out.

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes turns out perfectly:

• Use a Mandoline: For perfectly even potato slices, use a mandoline slicer. This ensures the potatoes cook evenly and look uniform.
• Add Extra Cheese: For extra cheesiness, sprinkle more shredded cheddar or Gruyère between the layers of potatoes and on top before baking.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken and everything set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
A: Yes, boneless pork chops work great. Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a little faster than bone-in chops.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to cook, bring the dish to room temperature and bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Let the dish cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be used for a slightly sweeter and more nutrient-dense version of this dish.

Q: What other cheeses can I use?
A: You can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a comforting, hearty, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The juicy pork chops pair beautifully with the creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight meal or a holiday dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, homemade comfort food classic!

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