This Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole brings together tender pork chops, creamy cheese, and fluffy potatoes in one tasty dish. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
Every bite is a cozy hug on a plate! I love how simple it is to make—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you might try using chicken breasts instead. They also cook nicely and absorb flavors well.
Potatoes: I prefer Russet potatoes for their fluffiness, but Yukon Gold potatoes work too. For a fun twist, consider using sweet potatoes for natural sweetness. Just slice them thinly.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for that classic taste, but blending it with mozzarella gives a lovely melt. If you’re aiming for a lower-fat option, you can try reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
Heavy Cream & Milk: This combo makes the sauce rich. For a lighter version, you could use whole milk only or even almond milk if you prefer dairy-free. Just keep in mind the flavor may change slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
The cheese sauce adds a lot of flavor and creaminess to the casserole. Here’s how to make it perfectly:
- Start by melting butter in the skillet over medium heat and add minced garlic for flavor.
- Mix in the flour, cooking it for about a minute to form a roux. This helps thicken the sauce.
- Slowly whisk in milk and cream until you have a smooth mixture. Keep stirring to avoid lumps.
- Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Lastly, mix in the shredded cheese until it’s fully melted.
Taking your time with the sauce ensures it has a rich texture and flavor that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking your casserole!
Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 to 6 pork chops, bone-in or boneless
- 4 to 5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 green onions or scallions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking oil or spray for browning pork chops
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time, plus about 40-50 minutes for baking. With a total time of around an hour, you can have a hearty dinner ready for your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Start by seasoning the pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet, heat a little cooking oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chops on both sides until they are golden—this should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Prepping the Oven:
While your pork chops are resting, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your casserole.
3. Making the Cheese Sauce:
In the same skillet used for the pork chops, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it smells wonderful. Then, stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens (this should take around 4-5 minutes). Once thickened, take it off the heat and mix in half of the shredded cheddar along with all of the Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
4. Layering the Casserole:
In a greased baking dish, start by arranging a layer of the sliced potatoes and onions (if you’re using them). Drizzle a little cheese sauce over the potatoes, then place the browned pork chops on top. If you have any potatoes and onions left, cover the chops with those, and finish by pouring the remaining cheese sauce evenly over everything.
5. Adding the Final Cheese Layer:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the entire casserole for a delicious crust.
6. Baking the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender and the top to be a lovely golden brown color. You can check if the potatoes are done by inserting a fork; if it goes in easily, it’s ready!
7. Finishing Touches and Serving:
After baking, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set a bit. If you’d like, garnish with chopped green onions or scallions for a fresh touch.
This hearty and cheesy casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a satisfying mix of flavors and textures in every bite. Enjoy your cozy dinner!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork chops are delicious, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts or thighs for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken may cook faster.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, feel free to use half-and-half or whole milk. For a non-dairy option, almond milk or coconut cream can work, but the flavor may change slightly.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If it looks dry, add a splash of milk or cream to freshen it up!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold.