This dish features juicy pork chops coated in a tasty gravy, served alongside creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. It’s a perfect combo for a hearty meal!
When I dig into this, I feel like a chef! The cheesy potatoes are so good, they might steal the spotlight. Plus, leftovers are a dream for lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor but boneless also works well. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts or thighs for a lighter twist.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are my favorites for scalloped potatoes. If you want a healthier option, sweet potatoes add a nice flavor, too!
Heavy Cream: I love the richness heavy cream brings, but if you want to lighten the dish, swap it for whole milk or half-and-half. You could even use almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang, but if you’re looking for something different, consider using Gruyère or a mild cheese like mozzarella for creaminess.
How Can I Get Juicy Pork Chops and a Thick Gravy?
Cooking the pork chops just right ensures they’re juicy! Here’s how:
- Season the chops well with salt and pepper before cooking. This helps lock in flavor.
- Sear on medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust. Don’t rush this step!
- Remove them from the pan before cooking the sauce; this keeps them juicy.
- Add a bit of flour to the gravy if you want it thicker. This also adds depth of flavor, which is great!
- Simmer the chops in the gravy on low to keep them moist.
These tips will help you create a delicious dish that everyone will love! Enjoy the cooking process!
Easy Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smothered Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to cook. You’ll spend about 40 minutes baking the cheesy scalloped potatoes while the pork chops simmer away. A hearty meal in just over an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the flour to create a roux; cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring that there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take approximately 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes followed by half of the cheese sauce. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes and sauce. Cover the dish with foil, and bake for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
2. Cook the Smothered Pork Chops:
While the potatoes are baking, season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them until they’re browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. If you prefer a thicker gravy, sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine, cooking for about a minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to deglaze the pan and dissolve any browned bits. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and the cream. Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
3. Serve:
To serve, plate a pork chop and spoon generous amounts of the onion gravy over the top. Pair it with a serving of cheesy scalloped potatoes on the side. If you like, you can garnish your dish with some fresh chopped parsley or chives for an extra touch!
Enjoy your comforting Easy Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may require less time to cook through—about 3-4 minutes per side should be sufficient.
What’s a Good Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free option, try using almond milk or coconut cream—the flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the scalloped potatoes and smother the pork chops in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat everything in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to the potatoes if they seem dry. Enjoy them as a satisfying meal or lunch the next day!
