Experience the Comfort of Flavorful Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

Ever walked into a kitchen and been greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of savory pork and creamy potatoes? This Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole gives you that warm, welcoming hug in a dish! It’s not just about comfort; this recipe is incredibly easy and requires minimal cleanup, making it a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe?

Why should you whip up this casserole tonight?

One-Pan Wonder: Who doesn’t love a dinner that’s practically a self-contained masterpiece? Less time washing dishes means more time for snuggles on the couch.
Budget-Friendly: Feed the entire family without breaking the bank! With just a few simple ingredients, this dish is both delicious and easy on your wallet.
Crowd Pleaser: Inviting friends over? This casserole is so good, they might just invite themselves back again! 🍽️

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

6 boneless pork chops
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp paprika
2 tbsp butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the pork chops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir continuously until lightly browned, about 2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the dried thyme, paprika, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Grease a large baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
Place the browned pork chops over the potatoes. Layer the remaining potatoes on top.
Pour the remaining cheese sauce over the top layer of potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Make Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole (Overview)

Getting this dish on the table feels like magic! Start by seasoning and browning the pork chops to lock in flavor. While they rest, cook those onions and make a silky cheese sauce that will coat every layer with love. Don’t forget the potatoes; they add the perfect bite! Remember, overlapping those slices means even more creamy goodness. Oh, and trust me—letting it rest for 10 minutes before serving makes a world of difference!

How to Serve Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

When serving this dish, think comfort food vibes! Pair it with a fresh green salad for a crunchy contrast or some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy sauce. Picture this: golden-brown potatoes layered with succulent pork, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that just makes your taste buds dance.

How to Store Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

Got leftovers? This casserole keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months! For a quick reheat, pop it in the oven or microwave until heated through, ensuring that cheesy goodness makes a comeback!

Tips to Make Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

Slice Potatoes Thinly: Make sure those potato slices are thin to ensure they cook through perfectly.
Try Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or add a bit of Parmesan for a unique twist.
Season Your Layers: Don’t be shy with the seasonings; a little extra thyme or garlic powder can elevate your dish.
Make Ahead: You can prep everything and assemble it a few hours ahead of time. Just bake it when you’re ready to feast!
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye out towards the end to avoid overbaking; you want the perfect creamy texture.

Variation

Want to mix things up? Try adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms to the layers for an extra health kick. Feeling adventurous? Swap out the pork for chicken breasts or tofu for a plant-based option!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep it and let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! Water or vegetable broth works just as well for building flavor.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yep! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!