When the weekend rolls around and the hustle of the week slowly fades, I crave something that warms both my heart and home. That’s when I found myself whipping up a dish that’s been a cherished favorite at family gatherings: Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole. The very sound of those tender pork chops mingling with creamy, cheesy potatoes sends my senses into overdrive.
Imagine lifting that golden, bubbling casserole from the oven, the aroma of garlic and thyme enveloping you like a comforting hug. It's not just a meal; it’s a memory in the making—perfect for cozy nights in or when friends drop by unexpectedly. With just 20 minutes of prep and a bit of patience, you can transform simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this hearty recipe that’s destined to become a staple on your dinner table!
Why You'll Love This Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole
- This Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just 20 minutes of simple prep time.
- You'll be blown away by the rich and savory flavors that come together in this dish, making every bite a taste sensation.
- Not only is it a fantastic comfort food, but its versatility allows you to serve it on special occasions or as a cozy weeknight dinner.
- The visual appeal of this bubbling, golden casserole coming out of the oven will impress your family and friends, ensuring it’s a memorable addition to any meal.
Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole Ingredients
For the Pork Chops
• 6 pork chops – bone-in or boneless, your choice; bone-in adds extra flavor!
For the Potatoes
• 4 cups potatoes – thinly sliced for even cooking and maximum creaminess.
For the Aromatics
• 1 large onion – sliced for delightful sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic – minced to add a hearty kick to the dish.
For the Sauce
• 2 cups chicken broth – enhances the dish’s savory notes; feel free to use low-sodium.
• 1 cup heavy cream – for that luscious, creamy texture every casserole craves.
• 3 tablespoon butter – adds richness, perfect for sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 3 tablespoon all-purpose flour – helps thicken the sauce, making it beautifully decadent.
For the Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika – adds a warm, earthy flavor to complement the pork.
• 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme – imparts a lovely herbal aroma that ties the dish together.
• to taste salt – enhances all the flavors in this Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole.
• to taste black pepper – for a subtle kick that balances the richness.
How to Make Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole
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Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and remains beautifully golden.
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Layer potatoes: Place half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the greased dish, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper for a burst of flavor.
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Sear pork chops: Season your pork chops generously, then sear them briefly in melted butter. Cook until they're lightly browned, creating a delicious crust.
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Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, sauté the sliced onions and minced garlic until softened. Stir in the flour, then slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth.
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Assemble the casserole: Layer the pork chops over the potatoes, top with the remaining potatoes, and generously pour your rich sauce over everything, ensuring an even distribution.
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Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven until the potatoes are tender and the pork is cooked through, about 45 minutes.
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Brown and serve: Uncover the casserole for the last 15 minutes of baking to achieve a lovely golden color. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole?
Let’s elevate your dining experience with some delightful pairings that bring out the best in this comforting casserole.
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Garlic Green Beans: Their crisp texture adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, perfectly balancing the creamy casserole's richness.
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Buttery Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of corn complements the savory flavors of the pork, making every bite a joyful dance of flavors.
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Crusty Bread: Serve warm, sliced bread for dipping into the rich sauce, ensuring no drop goes uneaten and enhancing the meal's comfort factor.
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Simple Side Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the dish.
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Pickled Vegetables: Their tangy crunch can provide a zesty contrast and cleanse the palate between bites of the rich casserole.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert, as its cinnamon spice beautifully complements the savory elements of your dinner.
Whether it’s a cozy family night or a gathering of friends, these pairings will create a feast that lingers in memory long after the plates are cleared.
Smothered Pork Chop Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture without any dairy. It's a deliciously unexpected twist!
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Herb-Infused: Swap dried thyme for fresh rosemary or oregano for a fragrant boost. Herbs add a beautiful aroma that will fill your kitchen with warmth.
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Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat. This little addition will elevate the flavor for spice lovers.
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Veggie-Loaded: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the casserole layers for extra nutrition. This not only enhances the flavor but adds beautiful color.
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Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. The melty cheese creates a comforting crust everyone will adore.
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Sweet Touch: A layer of caramelized onions can add a wonderful sweetness to the dish. Sauté until golden before layering—you won’t regret it!
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Whole Grain Twist: Swap out regular flour for whole wheat flour or cornstarch in the sauce for a healthier option. It’s a simple switch that still delivers an amazing result.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor. This enhances the richness of the pork, creating a mouthwatering experience.
How to Store and Freeze Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole
Room Temperature: Store leftovers at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Keep your Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 30-40 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, which makes dinnertime feel effortless. Simply follow the recipe through the assembly stage, cover tightly, and refrigerate. To maintain the dish's quality, ensure the covering is airtight to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven. Bake as directed, and you’ll have a savory, comforting meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole, ensure your pork chops are at room temperature before searing to promote even cooking.
- A common mistake is overcrowding the pan, so sear the chops in batches if necessary to achieve a nice brown crust.
- When layering your potatoes, make sure they are evenly distributed for consistent cooking throughout the casserole.
- Remember that cooking times may vary based on your oven, so it's a good idea to check the doneness of the pork and potatoes a bit before the recommended bake time.
Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for this casserole?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties become wonderfully creamy when baked, making them perfect for layering in your Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole.
How do I store leftovers from the casserole?
Very simply! After cooking, allow your casserole to cool to room temperature, cover it tightly, and store it in an airtight container. It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently in the oven or microwave, and it will taste almost as good as when it was fresh!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole, cool it completely after baking, then tightly wrap it in aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will retain its best quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my pork chops are tough after baking?
If your pork chops turn out tough, it might be due to overcooking or using leaner cuts. To avoid this, ensure to sear the chops only until lightly browned, and keep an eye on your bake time. Use a meat thermometer for best results; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender meat. If they still feel a bit tough, consider letting them rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Are there any dietary considerations for this casserole?
Absolutely! If you want to make the casserole gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For those counting calories, consider using low-fat versions of cream and broth. If you’re preparing this dish for guests with allergies, always double-check the labels to avoid any potential allergens, especially concerning the broth and cream.
Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Place half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the greased dish, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- Season pork chops and sear them in melted butter until lightly browned.
- Sauté onions and garlic in the same pan until softened, then whisk in flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream until smooth.
- Layer pork chops over potatoes, top with remaining potatoes, and pour the sauce evenly over everything.
- Cover and bake until potatoes are tender and pork is cooked through, about 45 minutes.
- Uncover for the last 15 minutes to achieve golden color, then let it rest before serving.
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