This cozy dish features juicy pork chops layered with creamy scalloped potatoes. It’s like a warm hug on your plate! Plus, it’s all baked together for yummy flavors.
I love how the creamy potatoes soak up the juices from the pork—so delicious! When I make this, I can’t help but go back for seconds (and sometimes thirds!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for flavor and tenderness. If you want to switch it up, boneless chops or even chicken thighs work well, though the cooking time may vary a bit.
Potatoes: I recommend Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their starchy goodness. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower can be a fun substitute; just cut it into thin slices.
Cheese: Cheddar steals the show here! You could use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor or try Gruyère for a creamier texture. Vegan cheese options can also be a good fit if you’re dairy-free.
Heavy Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, swap it out for half and half or whole milk, but know it will lose some creaminess. For dairy-free, coconut milk is a great option!
How Do I Make Sure My Scalloped Potatoes Cook Through?
Cooking scalloped potatoes evenly can be a challenge! Start by slicing your potatoes thinly, about a 1/8-inch thick. This allows them to cook evenly and soften nicely as they bake.
- Layering is key! Start with half the potatoes, then half the cheese sauce, repeat, and ensure sauce covers the potatoes.
- Cover the dish with foil while baking to lock in steam, which helps cook the potatoes through; this prevents drying out.
- Remove the foil towards the end to let the top brown and become crispy. This gives a nice texture contrast!
How to Make Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take approximately 20 minutes of prep time and about 1 hour of cooking time, making it ready to serve in about 1 hour and 20 minutes total. Perfect for a hearty family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
Season the pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and heat until shimmering. Sear the pork chops until they are golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter, then add the minced garlic and sliced onions. Sauté until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
Add the flour to the skillet and stir to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until the mixture is smooth. Continue to cook while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Layer the Casserole:
In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Next, place the seared pork chops on top of the sauce. Add the remaining potatoes over and around the pork chops, then pour the remaining cheese sauce over the entire dish. Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, then bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely presentation. Enjoy this comforting and hearty dish!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just be mindful that they might cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Just remember to whisk the cornstarch with a bit of cold milk before adding it to the sauce to avoid lumps.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if starting from the fridge.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This Casserole?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!