This yummy Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole is a simple, comforting dish. Flavorful pork chops sit on a bed of tender potatoes, all baked together with creamy goodness!
It’s the perfect dish for busy nights, and it always makes my kitchen smell delightful. I love serving it with a side of veggies for a colorful plate! 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great here for flavor and tenderness. You can use boneless chops or pork loin if preferred. Just ensure they’re not too thin, or they may dry out during cooking.
Potatoes: Yellow potatoes are perfect for this dish because they hold their shape well. If you want, you can substitute with Russet or red potatoes, but yellow potatoes give a creamy texture that I really enjoy!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness. For a twist, try a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. This blend can melt beautifully and add an interesting flavor profile.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. If you’re looking to go dairy-free, coconut cream can work too, although it will add a slight coconut flavor.
Onion and Garlic: While the onion is optional, it adds great flavor. You could also use shallots for a milder taste or leeks for a slight sweetness.
How Do I Get Perfectly Tender and Flavorful Pork Chops?
The searing step is crucial for juicy pork chops. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot before adding the oil. Here’s how to do it:
- Season your pork chops generously to help enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms before flipping.
- Don’t crowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to maintain high heat.
- Let the chops rest after searing. This allows the juices to redistribute for better flavor.
This technique prevents the chops from drying out and locks in that delicious flavor, making every bite memorable!
Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 6 medium yellow potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 1 hour for baking. Altogether, you will need about 1 hour and 15 minutes to make this delightful casserole from start to finish, including the time for resting before serving.
Instructions
1. Preparing the Oven and Dish:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Searing the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Season both sides of each pork chop with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the pork chops in the hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and develop a beautiful crust. Once seared, remove them from the pan and set aside.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion (if using) and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they soften and are fragrant. Be sure not to burn the garlic!
4. Mixing the Creamy Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, sour cream, chicken broth, dried parsley, thyme, and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Assembling the Casserole:
Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of your greased casserole dish. Then, pour half of the creamy mixture over these potatoes. Next, place the seared pork chops on top of the potato layer. After that, add the remaining sliced potatoes over and around the pork chops and pour the rest of the cream mixture on top.
6. Topping with Cheese:
Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the entire casserole, making it extra delicious!
7. Baking the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish loosely with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake it for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.
8. Serving:
Once done, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps set everything nicely. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley before digging in. Enjoy your warm and comforting casserole!
This rich and creamy casserole combines tender pork chops with luscious potatoes in a hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe, but they may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out. Searing them for about 2-3 minutes per side should work well!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, use crème fraîche or even a dairy-free yogurt for a lighter option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help retain moisture.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Yes, adding vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or even carrots can be a great way to incorporate more nutrients! Just make sure to cut them into small, even pieces so they cook through along with the potatoes.
