Description: This Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish, perfect for a hearty family dinner. Tender, juicy pork chops are nestled in a creamy, cheesy scalloped potato casserole, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe combines the rustic charm of scalloped potatoes with the savory goodness of pork chops, making it an all-in-one dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. The rich, creamy sauce, infused with garlic and cheddar cheese, perfectly complements the tender pork and thinly sliced potatoes. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, approximately 1-inch thick
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Onions Peel the potatoes and thinly slice them using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl filled with cold water to prevent them from browning and to remove excess starch. Thinly slice the large onion and set aside in a separate bowl. Mince the garlic cloves and keep them ready for use.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial as it enhances the natural flavors of the pork and ensures a delicious crust when seared.
Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. The goal is to barely cook the pork chops through, as they will continue to cook in the casserole. Remove the seared pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 4: Make the Bechamel Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions. Sauté the onions until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step infuses the oil with the flavors of garlic and onion, which will be the base of the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Create the Roux Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. This step is important as the roux will thicken the sauce. Ensure that the flour is well incorporated and there are no lumps.
Step 6: Add Liquid and Simmer Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish the Sauce Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and cheesy. The cheese adds a rich, creamy texture and a delightful flavor to the sauce.
Step 8: Layer the Casserole Drain the sliced potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large casserole dish, layer half of the potatoes, followed by half of the cheesy sauce. Arrange the seared pork chops on top of the sauce. Cover the pork chops with the remaining potatoes and pour the remaining sauce over the top, ensuring that all the potatoes are well coated.
Step 9: Bake the Casserole Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. 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.
Step 10: Rest and Garnish Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Why you will love this recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy, cheesy potatoes combined with the tender pork chops make it a satisfying and heartwarming meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to prepare, even for novice cooks.
- All-in-One Dish: It’s a complete meal in one dish, combining protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates for a balanced and fulfilling dinner.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and comforting dish.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Pair it with a crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce.
- For a special occasion, serve with a glass of red wine that complements the richness of the dish.
Tips:
- Use a Mandoline: For uniformly thin potato slices, use a mandoline. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife and a steady hand will do the trick.
- Prevent Potatoes from Browning: Keep the sliced potatoes in cold water until you’re ready to use them to prevent them from browning.
- Don’t Overcook the Pork Chops: Remember that the pork chops will continue to cook in the casserole, so don’t overcook them during the searing process.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would all work well in this recipe.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
COOKING Rating: 5/5 Stars
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving (estimated)
- Protein: 40-50g per serving (estimated)
- Sodium: 400-500mg per serving (estimated)
Conclusion
The Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender pork chops, creamy potatoes, and cheesy sauce, it’s a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Easy to prepare and customizable to your liking, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that will warm your heart and soul. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a special gathering with loved ones, this casserole is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
- Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but bone-in pork chops tend to be more flavorful and retain moisture better during cooking. If using boneless chops, reduce the searing time slightly to prevent them from drying out.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- What other vegetables can I add to this casserole?
- There are several vegetables you can add to enhance the flavor and nutrition of this casserole. Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, and spinach are all excellent choices. Add them to the potato layers or mix them into the sauce.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of the casserole. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would all work well.
- How do I prevent the potatoes from browning before baking?
- To prevent the sliced potatoes from browning, keep them submerged in cold water until you’re ready to layer the casserole. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents oxidation, which causes browning.
