This cozy dish combines juicy pork chops with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners!
The layers of tender potatoes and savory meat make it so comforting. Plus, it’s all baked together, so clean-up is a breeze! I love serving this with a side salad for a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless pork chops work best for this dish due to their tenderness. You can also use bone-in chops for more flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets could be a good substitute.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to for their creamy texture, but Russets are great too. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen hash browns for a quicker prep time.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds wonderful flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try cashew cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the milk.
Milk: Whole milk gives a richer sauce, but you can use skim milk or even a plant-based option like almond milk if needed. Just keep in mind that this may alter the richness.
How Do I Make Sure My Scalloped Potatoes Are Creamy and Tender?
The key to perfect scalloped potatoes is layering and cooking time. Start with thinly sliced potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick) to ensure even cooking. When you pour the creamy sauce over, make sure it covers all the layers for consistent flavor throughout.
- Cover the dish with foil during the first half of baking to trap steam and help soften the potatoes.
- Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to allow the top to get golden brown and bubbly.
- Testing for doneness? A fork should easily pierce through the potatoes when it’s done!
Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 to 6 boneless pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour and 5 minutes to cook. Total time to table: about 1 hour and 20 minutes! It’s definitely worth the wait for such a comforting dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, season your pork chops generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3 minutes per side, just until they are nicely browned. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point. Once done, remove the chops from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk it constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which helps thicken the sauce. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Allow this to cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
4. Add Seasoning and Cheese:
Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. If you’re adding the cheddar cheese, toss it in now, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly with the sauce. Remove from heat afterward.
5. Layer the Casserole:
Lightly grease a baking dish and begin layering your ingredients. First, lay down a layer of the sliced potatoes, followed by the onions if you’re using them. Pour a portion of the creamy sauce over the potatoes.
6. Add the Pork Chops:
Place the seared pork chops directly on the sauced potatoes. Next, arrange the remaining slices of potatoes around and between the pork chops. Pour the rest of the creamy sauce over everything.
7. Bake:
Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 50 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, allowing everything to finish cooking and develop a nice golden top. Ensure the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked through, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve this hearty casserole hot, and enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used! They will add extra flavor, but ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to refresh the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. Just increase the baking time slightly since it will be cold when it goes in the oven.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables to add some freshness and balance to the meal!