This Smothered Pork Chop Casserole is comfort food at its best! Juicy pork chops sit atop a bed of creamy, cheesy goodness with mushrooms and onions that make every bite special.
Seriously, who can resist the mix of tender meat and rich flavors? I whip this up after a long day, and it always puts a smile on my face—easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too but may not be as juicy. You can also use chicken thighs for a different taste.
Flour: Used for dredging to get a crispy coating. If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend does well!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add a wonderful earthiness. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, try using bell peppers or zucchini instead for some veggie goodness.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: These cheeses melt nicely, creating a creamy top. You can use any cheese you like—pepper jack for spice or parmesan for a nutty flavor are great options!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Searing on Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is critical for flavor. Follow these steps to get that delicious crust:
- Heat your skillet well before adding oil to prevent sticking.
- Make sure the chop is dry before dredging in flour—this helps the crust stick.
- Sear the chops without moving them too much; let them brown for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
Taking your time with this step will build layers of flavor that make this casserole shine!
Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 40 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and another 30 minutes for baking. Quick, easy, and totally worth it for a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pork Chops:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help add flavor to the meat!
2. Dredge and Sear the Pork Chops:
Next, take your all-purpose flour and place it on a plate. Dredge each pork chop lightly in the flour, making sure to shake off any extra flour. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Once seared, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Flavorful Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms. Cook these until they soften, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook everything together for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Let this sauce simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Grab a casserole dish and pour a thin layer of the mushroom and tomato sauce at the bottom. Then, arrange the seared pork chops on top. Pour the remaining sauce over the pork chops, making sure they are well covered.
5. Top with Cheese and Bake:
Now it’s time to sprinkle your cheeses! Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Place it in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your rich, savory meal!
This Smothered Pork Chop Casserole pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad for a complete dinner. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops in This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw the pork chops before cooking. You can safely thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Mushrooms?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute them with bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while gouda or parmesan can bring a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that creamy finish!
