This Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole is a warm and filling dish that combines tender pork chops, creamy potatoes, and lots of melted cheese. It’s the comfort food dream!
Honestly, nothing beats the gooey cheese on top! I love to serve this with a simple salad to balance things out—easy and tasty! Plus, it makes great leftovers, if there are any! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Both bone-in and boneless pork chops work well, but I prefer bone-in for added flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, you can substitute chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust cooking time as needed since chicken cooks differently.
Potatoes: I like using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture when baked. If you want a creamier texture, yukon gold potatoes are a great choice. For a quicker option, you can use frozen hash browns, but you might need to adjust cooking time.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for this dish as they caramelize nicely, adding sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even shallots.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms or want to avoid it, cream of celery or chicken soup works just as well. You could also make a homemade version with sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth for a fresher touch!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for the rich, cheesy layer. If you’re looking to mix it up, try Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a kick, or even a combination of cheeses for a depth of flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Tender and Flavorful?
Getting perfectly tender potatoes in casseroles can be tricky, but it’s all about layering and cooking times. Here’s how to ensure success:
- Layer your potatoes evenly at the bottom to prevent uneven cooking.
- Season each layer lightly with salt and pepper to build flavor throughout.
- Cover the casserole tightly with foil during the first part of baking. This keeps the moisture in.
- Check if the potatoes are tender with a fork before adding the cheese—if it’s not fork-tender after an hour, give it more time.
- After uncovering, let it bake until the cheese bubbles—this gives both color and a delightful crust.
Remember, let it rest a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to dish up, and the flavors meld together beautifully!
Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes approximately 15 minutes for prep work and 75-80 minutes for baking. You’ll spend about 60 minutes in the oven with foil, followed by another 15-20 minutes uncovered. Don’t forget to let it set for a few minutes before serving to let all the flavors meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pork Chops:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear the pork chops in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
2. Cooking the Onions:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook them until they become translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. This will add a lovely flavor to your casserole!
3. Mixing the Soup and Preparing Layers:
In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the milk. Stir it well until everything is smooth. Now you’re ready to layer! In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start by laying half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Assembling the Casserole:
Next, spread half of the cooked onions over the layer of potatoes, followed by pouring half of the soup mixture evenly across this layer. Now, place the seared pork chops evenly covering the potato mixture. On top of the pork chops, layer the remaining sliced potatoes and onions. Finish by pouring the rest of the soup mixture over everything.
5. Baking the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. After the time is up, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and continue baking uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the potatoes are tender.
6. Serving Your Casserole:
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period helps the layers settle and makes serving easier. Before serving, feel free to garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor!
Enjoy your deliciously cheesy, comforting pork chop potato casserole!
Can I Substitute the Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup as a substitute. You can even make a homemade version with cream and sautéed mushrooms for a fresh taste!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can make a few easy substitutions to lighten it up! Try using leaner cuts of pork, or even swap the pork chops for skinless chicken thighs. For the potatoes, consider using sweet potatoes for added nutrition.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy!