Description
Southern-style smothered pork chops merge seamlessly with creamy scalloped potatoes in this hearty one-pan comfort meal. Layers of tender meat, melted cheese, and rich sauce create a mouthwatering dinner that will become your family’s new favorite weekend classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 6 boneless pork chops
Vegetables and Starches:
- 4 cups (960 milliliters / 32 ounces) thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 small onion (thinly sliced)
Dairy, Seasonings, and Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480 milliliters / 16 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cups (480 milliliters / 16 ounces) milk
- ½ cup (120 milliliters / 4 ounces) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring an even heating environment for the casserole.
- Generously coat pork chops with a blend of salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, massaging the seasoning into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then sear pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side to develop a rich, golden-brown crust. Transfer the chops to a temporary plate.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté chopped onions until translucent and softened, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Dust the onions with flour, stirring continuously for 2 minutes to create a golden roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Gradually stream in milk and chicken broth, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps and create a smooth, creamy base.
- Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes until it reaches a velvety consistency, then stir in dried thyme, paprika, and of shredded cheddar cheese until fully incorporated and glossy.
- Lightly grease a large baking dish and create an initial layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping to ensure even coverage.
- Drizzle half the cheese sauce over the potato layer, ensuring complete and even distribution.
- Carefully place the browned pork chops atop the first potato layer, creating a hearty protein foundation.
- Add a second layer of potato slices, completely covering the pork chops.
- Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top, making sure to coat every potato slice.
- Sprinkle the additional of cheddar cheese across the surface for a golden, crispy finish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and potatoes to soften.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 15 minutes until the top turns golden and slightly crispy, and potatoes become tender.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes, which helps the sauce set and makes serving easier. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Save time by prepping ingredients before starting the cooking process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free culinary experience.
- Check potato thickness matters – aim for even 1/4-inch slices to guarantee uniform cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.
- Grate cheese fresh for maximum melting potential and more vibrant flavor compared to pre-shredded packaged varieties.
- Layer ingredients carefully to create delicious pockets of cheese sauce and prevent dry spots in the final dish.
- Select bone-in pork chops for enhanced flavor and juiciness, which contribute to a more succulent final meal.
- Consider covering the casserole during initial baking to lock in moisture and prevent excessive browning of the top layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg