This Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes Casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners! Juicy pork chops, creamy scalloped potatoes, and a blend of flavors make this dinner special.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy, bubbly goodness on top? I love how easy it is to pop in the oven and let it bake while I kick back and relax. Dinner has never been so simple and delicious! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and juiciness. You can use boneless chops if that’s what you have on hand, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work great for scalloped potatoes. If you need a lower-carb option, try cauliflower slices instead. It’ll give a different flavor but still delicious!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want something lighter, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though it may not be as thick. Almond milk works too, but it will change the taste.
Chemical Ingredients: Instead of dried thyme, feel free to experiment with rosemary or even Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs always add a great background flavor, so don’t fret about sticking to the recipe.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes are Soft and Creamy?
To get the perfect scalloped potatoes, layering is key! Make sure to fill the layers evenly and the sauce should cover the potatoes well. Here are some tips:
- Slice your potatoes thinly (1/8 inch thick) for faster cooking.
- Pre-cook your potato layers by soaking them in hot water for 10 minutes if you’re short on time.
- Cover the casserole with foil during the first part of baking. This traps steam and helps cook the potatoes thoroughly.
- Once the foil comes off, it allows the top to brown nicely!
Letting it sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors settle before you serve. Enjoy!
Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes for preparation and around 1 hour for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, let’s get that oven heated up! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and ready for your casserole.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear the chops for about 3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown, but don’t worry about cooking them all the way through just yet. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Onion and Garlic Mixture:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the sliced onion, and sauté for around 3-4 minutes, until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Yum!
4. Make the Sauce:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This helps to cook out the raw flour taste. Now, gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the cream (or milk). Keep stirring until the sauce thickens up a bit.
5. Season the Sauce:
Stir in the dried thyme, and add salt and pepper to taste. Once nicely combined, remove the skillet from heat.
6. Layer the Potatoes and Pork Chops:
Grab a greased casserole dish and start layering! Place half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes. Then, arrange the seared pork chops on top of them. Now, layer the remaining potato slices and pour the rest of the sauce on top to cover it.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover your casserole dish with aluminum foil to keep it moist while it bakes. Place it in the oven for about 45 minutes.
8. Final Touches:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top now. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender, the top is golden and bubbly, and the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely finish.
This hearty casserole serves perfectly with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal! Enjoy your delightful dinner! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops if that’s what you have. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. You can also substitute with other meats like chicken if you prefer!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free substitute, use almond milk or coconut milk, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor a bit.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a splash of cream or milk while reheating can help revive the creamy texture!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you cook it straight from the fridge.
