Imagine a bustling kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of savory pork and creamy cheese, as the Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole bakes to golden perfection. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, designed for those cozy weeknights when all you need is something hearty and satisfying. After a long day, there’s nothing quite like tearing into this layered casserole featuring tender pork chops nestled between velvety potatoes and melty cheese.
I first encountered this comforting classic during a family potluck, where it quickly became the star of the table, drawing everyone together with its inviting scent. What I love most is how effortlessly it combines flavor with convenience—perfectly suited for both seasoned chefs and home cooks who might feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat your family to a delightful dinner, this recipe is your ticket to comfort food heaven. With an adaptable nature, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. Let’s dive into the rich layers of taste that await!
Why is Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potatoes so special?
Comforting Delight: This casserole is a warm embrace on chilly nights, honoring the tradition of hearty, beloved comfort food.
Easy Prep: Minimal effort is required—perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Not just delicious, it brings everyone together, sparking joy and conversation at the dinner table.
Versatile Options: Adapt it to your tastes with sweet potatoes, or spice it up with red pepper flakes for a kick.
Rich Layers: Dive into creamy cheese, tender pork, and luscious potatoes; this casserole is a multi-layered flavor explosion!
Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potato Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Boneless Pork Chops – The main protein source for the dish; bone-in can substitute with longer browning time.
- Salt – Enhances flavor, making each bite satisfying.
- Black Pepper – Adds a touch of subtle heat to the profile.
- Garlic Powder – Provides a savory depth that lifts the dish.
- Onion Powder – Contributes to the overall flavor complexity for a comforting taste.
- Olive Oil – Used for browning the pork chops, adding richness to the casserole.
- Thinly Sliced Potatoes – The base of the casserole; slice to about 1/8-inch for even cooking.
- Small Onion (thinly sliced) – Adds sweetness and flavor to the overall sauce.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The star ingredient that brings creaminess; any melting cheese like Monterey Jack can work well.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the cheese sauce for a luxurious texture.
- Milk – Adds creaminess; use skim or low-fat for a lighter version.
- Chicken Broth – Provides savory depth in the cheese sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Dried Thyme – Infuses the dish with herbaceous notes for added flavor.
- Paprika – Introduces warmth and a touch of color to the sauce.
- Butter – Enriches the onions and the sauce, making it even more delectable.
For Finishing Touches
- Fresh Parsley (optional) – A beautiful garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
This Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potatoes casserole is not only a treat for the taste buds but is sure to become a beloved staple in your home—let’s get cooking!
How to Make Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and develops that beautiful golden-brown crust on top.
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Season the boneless pork chops generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This seasoning will build delicious flavor in the dish.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the seasoned pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden, then set them aside.
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Melt butter in the same skillet, then sauté the sliced onion until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma will lift your spirits!
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Sprinkle the flour over the onions; cook until lightly browned, about 2 minutes. This helps create a rich, thick sauce.
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Whisk in the milk and chicken broth gradually, stirring until the mixture is thickened, around 5 minutes. A creamy texture is what we’re aiming for!
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Stir in the dried thyme, paprika, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and velvety; every spoonful should be a taste of heaven.
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Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish, then pour half of the cheese sauce over them. Next, place the browned pork chops on top.
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Top with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, and then sprinkle the last cup of cheddar cheese on top. This will ensure a cheesy crust!
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
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Rest the casserole for about 10 minutes after baking; garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This will let the flavors settle and make serving easier.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potato Casserole?
Embrace the warmth of a hearty meal with delightful sides that beautifully complement this comforting casserole.
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Simple Green Salad: A light salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette brightens the rich flavors of the casserole.
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Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty bread is perfect for savoring every last bite of cheesy goodness left on your plate.
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Steamed Broccoli: The tender crunch of vibrant, steamed broccoli offers a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A touch of caramelization brings out the sprouts’ natural sweetness, perfectly balancing the savory pork dishes.
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Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of tart cranberry sauce adds a pop of flavor that enhances the savory richness of the dish.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp pairs wonderfully with the casserole, ending the meal on a sweet note.
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Sparkling Cider: This refreshing drink is an excellent choice for a festive touch, cleansing the palate between bites.
Enhance your dinner table experience with these duo ingredients for an unforgettable feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare all of the layers—seasoning the pork chops, slicing the potatoes, and making the cheese sauce—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the components in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain the casserole’s quality, layer the ingredients just before baking to prevent the potatoes from browning. When you’re ready to serve, assemble everything in the baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for the suggested time. With this easy make-ahead strategy, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potatoes Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and modifications to make this comforting casserole your own!
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Sweet Potatoes: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter and healthier profile. The natural sugar balances beautifully with the savory elements.
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Spice It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to add a spicy kick! A touch of heat enhances the flavor, making every bite more exciting.
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Cheese Swap: Use low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for lighter options. It’s still creamy but fits your dietary preferences.
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Veggie Boost: Add in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to sneak in some greens. They would blend harmoniously with the layers of flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or cilantro to elevate the aroma and flavor profile. A sprinkle just before serving can add freshness.
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Creamy Variation: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of making a cheese sauce for a different creamy texture and a unique twist.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or cornstarch to thicken your cheese sauce without sacrificing flavor.
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Bacon Lattice: For an indulgent twist, top the casserole with crispy bacon or pancetta before baking. It adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
How to Store and Freeze Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing to maintain its texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. This helps to retain the creamy layers of cheese.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate overnight before baking. This will enhance the flavors and make dinner time a breeze!
Expert Tips for Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
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Juicier Chops: Consider using bone-in pork chops for added flavor; just remember to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure tenderness.
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Perfect Potato Slices: For optimal cooking, slice the potatoes to about 1/8-inch thick. Thinner slices cook more evenly and quickly, resulting in a perfect texture.
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Boost Nutrition: Don’t hesitate to incorporate extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach; they add nutrition and delightful flavors that complement the smothered pork chop and scalloped potatoes.
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Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic, experimenting with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère can elevate your casserole’s flavor profile.
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Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just layer everything and refrigerate; pop it in the oven when you’re ready for a cozy meal.
Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of pork chops should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops are fantastic for this dish due to their tenderness, but bone-in pork chops can also be used. Just be mindful that bone-in chops will require a longer browning time to ensure they cook through properly. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly juicy results.
How should I store leftovers of the casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before sealing it to help keep its creamy texture intact. Reheating the leftovers in the oven is recommended for maintaining the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potatoes?
Very! To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw and then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
What if my casserole is too watery?
No worries! If your casserole happens to turn out watery, it could be due to excess moisture from the potatoes or not enough thickening agent. To help thicken the casserole, you can return it to the stovetop and add a bit more flour while stirring until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, you could bake it a bit longer without the foil to allow some moisture to evaporate.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potatoes gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as your thickening agent. Be sure to check all other ingredients for any potential gluten contents, especially the broth.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
The more the merrier! Feel free to load up your casserole with vegetables. Favorites include mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli, which all add fantastic flavors and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions before adding the cheese sauce to ensure they are nicely cooked and flavorful.
Smothered Pork Chop & Scalloped Potatoes for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the boneless pork chops generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the seasoned pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden, then set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet, then sauté the sliced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions; cook until lightly browned, about 2 minutes.
- Whisk in the milk and chicken broth gradually, stirring until thickened, around 5 minutes.
- Stir in the dried thyme, paprika, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish, pour half of the cheese sauce over them, then place the browned pork chops on top.
- Top with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, and sprinkle the last cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Rest the casserole for about 10 minutes after baking; garnish with fresh parsley if desired.