Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine tender, juicy pork chops nestled amongst layers of creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes, baked to golden perfection. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, a symphony of flavors that will have your family begging for seconds.

While the exact origins of scalloped potatoes are debated, the concept of layering thinly sliced potatoes with cream or sauce and baking them dates back centuries. Variations can be found across Europe, each region adding its own unique touch. Adding pork chops transforms this classic side dish into a complete and satisfying meal. It’s a brilliant way to combine a hearty protein with a beloved comfort food.

What makes this Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes contrasting beautifully with the savory, slightly crisp pork chops. The rich, cheesy sauce binds everything together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s a relatively hands-off dish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. I know you’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how much everyone enjoys it!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Pork Chops:
• 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Scalloped Potatoes:
• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese, divided
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparing the Pork Chops:

1. First, let’s get those pork chops ready! Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
2. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This is our spice rub that will give the pork chops a fantastic flavor.
3. Generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of each pork chop. Make sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet to be nice and hot before adding the pork chops.
5. Carefully place the pork chops in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook them in batches.
6. Sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
7. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Tent them loosely with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the scalloped potatoes.

Preparing the Scalloped Potatoes:

1. Now, let’s move on to the scalloped potatoes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. While the oven is preheating, prepare the potatoes and onion. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for achieving uniform thickness, but a sharp knife works just fine too. Thinly slice the onion as well.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure to smooth out any lumps.
6. Add the garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded Gruyere cheese. This will make the sauce extra creamy and flavorful.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Time to assemble the casserole! Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom of the baking dish, overlapping them slightly.
3. Top with a layer of sliced onions.
4. Pour about one-third of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Repeat the layers of potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce two more times, ending with a layer of cheese sauce.
6. Now, nestle the seared pork chops into the scalloped potatoes, spacing them evenly apart. Gently press them down slightly into the sauce.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese over the top of the casserole.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help the potatoes cook evenly and prevent the top from browning too quickly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can test the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of the casserole. If the fork slides in easily, the potatoes are done.
4. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and make it easier to slice.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Swiss, or a combination of cheeses would also be delicious in this casserole.
• Vegetable Additions: You can add other vegetables to the casserole, such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them lightly before adding them to the layers.
• Spice It Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Using a Mandoline: If you’re using a mandoline to slice the potatoes, be very careful and use the hand guard to protect your fingers.
• Preventing Browning: If the top of the casserole starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Cream Cheese Addition: For an even richer and creamier sauce, try adding 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the sauce along with the Gruyere.
• Herb Infusion: Infuse the milk and cream with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. Simply add a few sprigs of herbs to the saucepan while heating the milk and cream, then remove them before adding the flour.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top of the casserole before baking would add a delicious smoky flavor.
• Deglazing the Pan: After searing the pork chops, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine or chicken broth and add it to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

This Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this comforting and flavorful Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole as much as I do! It’s a perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that’s surprisingly easy to pull off. The tender, juicy pork chops nestled amongst creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes create a symphony of textures and tastes that will have your family begging for seconds. It’s a complete meal in one dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing deliciousness. Honestly, I can’t recommend this recipe enough – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

What makes this casserole a must-try? It’s the perfect balance of savory and comforting. The pork chops, browned to perfection, provide a hearty protein element, while the scalloped potatoes, infused with rich cream and sharp cheddar cheese, offer a decadent and satisfying base. The simple seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, the layering process ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Forget slaving over multiple dishes; this casserole delivers a complete and satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Looking for serving suggestions or variations? This casserole is fantastic on its own, but a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus would also complement the richness of the casserole beautifully. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce or using a pepper jack cheese in place of some of the cheddar. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-sliced potatoes, but I highly recommend taking the extra few minutes to slice them yourself for the best texture. Another variation is to add a layer of caramelized onions between the pork chops and potatoes for a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor. You could even experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Fontina, to create your own unique flavor profile. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but be aware that the sauce won’t be quite as rich. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms for an earthy element. The possibilities are endless!

I truly believe that this Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole will become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a special occasion. The combination of tender pork chops and creamy potatoes is simply irresistible, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner in my book.

Don’t just take my word for it – try it yourself!

I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. I’m always excited to see how others put their own spin on my recipes. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a delicious and comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear what you think! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. Enjoy!