This dish features juicy pork chops covered in cheesy goodness, along with creamy scalloped potatoes. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
I love how the cheese just makes everything extra yummy. Plus, baking it all together means less mess. It’s the perfect meal for a family dinner when you want to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: For this recipe, boneless pork chops are ideal as they cook evenly. Bone-in chops also work well if you prefer that flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey cutlets instead.
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creaminess and baking quality. You can substitute with sweet potatoes for a twist, but they will provide a different flavor.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a milder taste. Mixing different cheeses can also create a more complex flavor!
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for lower fat, substitute with 2% milk, or for a non-dairy option, use almond milk or coconut milk, though they may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy and Delicious?
Making a creamy sauce is key to this dish. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by melting butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking it lightly to avoid a raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously, which helps prevent lumps from forming. This should take about 5-7 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in the cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Trust me, taking your time with the sauce will pay off! It’s the heart of the dish, making everything richer and more satisfying.
Cheesy Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork and Potatoes:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 1 hour to bake, which gives you a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s a wonderful dish to make for a family dinner or a cozy gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready for your delicious bake!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and season them with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step will add great flavor!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, so just give them a nice color. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
Next, in a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring to combine and cook for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat.
5. Layer the Potatoes:
In a baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom. If you’re using onions, add a layer of them over the potatoes.
6. Add the First Cheese Sauce Layer:
Pour half of the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes (and onions). Spread it evenly to cover everything.
7. Repeat the Layering:
Now, repeat with the remaining sliced potatoes and the second half of the cheese sauce, spreading everything evenly.
8. Add the Pork Chops:
Nestle those seared pork chops right on top of the scalloped potato layers. Don’t shy away from pressing them down a little!
9. Top with Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the last cup of shredded cheddar cheese over everything for that gooey, cheesy finish!
10. Bake It Up:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the pork chops to be fully cooked (145°F/63°C) and the cheese to be bubbly and golden.
11. Let it Rest:
Once done, let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set a little before you dig in!
12. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this comforting bake with your favorite sides!
Enjoy this cozy, cheesy pork chop and scalloped potato bake as a hearty main dish perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a faster option. Just make sure they are thoroughly thawed for even cooking!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option for busy days! Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave individual portions. Just be careful not to overcook it when reheating!
What Can I Use Instead of Potatoes?
If you want a different base, you can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes, cauliflower (for a low-carb option), or even noodles or rice. Just note that the cooking time may vary depending on what you choose, so keep an eye on it while it bakes!
