These Garlic Butter Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor, topped with a tasty garlic butter sauce that makes your mouth water. Paired with a Cheesy Potato Bake, it’s a meal you’ll love!
If you’re like me, the cheesy potatoes always take the spotlight. Who can resist creamy, gooey cheese on tender potatoes? This dinner is sure to impress your family and friends! 🥔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops offer more flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work just fine. For a leaner option, you can use pork loin or tenderloin; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for control over seasoning. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use olive oil entirely for cooking the pork chops. It gives a nice flavor and is lower in saturated fat!
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are best due to their starch content, which makes for a creamy bake. If you’re looking for a lower-carb alternative, cauliflower can be used, finely chopped and cooked until tender, but it will change the texture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for flavor. If you want to swap, try Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist. You could also use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Pork Chops?
The secret to juicy pork chops is not overcooking them. Here are a few tips:
- Let the pork chops sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer! Pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C), which keeps it nice and juicy.
- After cooking, always let the chops rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender.
What’s the Best Way to Layer the Cheesy Potato Bake?
Layering is key to ensure every bite of your potato bake is cheesy and flavorful:
- Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly. Thin slices (about 1/8 inch) help them cook uniformly.
- Alternating cheeses between layers adds richness. Don’t skimp!
- Pouring the cream mixture evenly over the layers ensures all potatoes get the creamy goodness!
With these tips, you’ll create an impressive and comforting Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake that’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy your cooking!
Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Potato Bake:
- 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, with around 1 hour to cook. You’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in about 1 hour and 15 minutes—perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheesy Potato Bake:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika on medium heat until it’s nearly simmering. Then, remove it from the heat. Next, butter a medium-sized baking dish and lay half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses over the potatoes.
Pour half of the warm cream mixture over the layers, then add the rest of the potato slices. Top everything with the remaining cheeses, pour over the rest of the creamy mixture, and dot the top with small pieces of butter. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the oven for 40 minutes. After that, uncover it and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Cook the Garlic Butter Pork Chops:
While the potatoes are baking, pat the pork chops dry using paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook them uncovered for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C). Once done, take them out of the skillet and let them rest for a moment.
Next, reduce the heat to medium, adding butter to the skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Sauté everything for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, stirring to get all those delicious browned bits from the pan. Put the pork chops back in the skillet and spoon the garlic butter over them to evenly coat. Cook for one more minute to let those flavors infuse.
3. Serve:
To serve, place the pork chops on the plates and generously spoon the extra garlic butter from the skillet over the top. Pair them with a hearty portion of cheesy potato bake, and don’t forget to add fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color!
4. Enjoy!
This satisfying and indulgent meal goes wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance the richness. Dig in, and enjoy every bite!
—
This recipe combines juicy, garlic butter pork chops with creamy, cheesy potato bake—a perfect meal for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they typically cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even whole milk. The potatoes may be a little less rich but will still be delicious. For a dairy-free option, look for creamy non-dairy alternatives, such as coconut cream or cashew cream.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops and cheesy potato bake in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For best results, cover the dish to keep moisture in while reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Potato Bake?
Yes, adding veggies is a great idea! You can incorporate thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, or even spinach to add flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if adding dense vegetables, so everything cooks evenly.
