This hearty dish combines tender pork chops with creamy scalloped potatoes. The layers of fluffy potatoes and rich flavors make it a family favorite.
Honestly, who can resist cheesy potatoes? I always pile my plate high with them and savor every bite. They’re just that irresistible! 🥔😍
What I love most is how easy this casserole is to put together. Just layer everything in a dish and let the oven do the work. You’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are my go-to for their flavor and juiciness. You can also use boneless pork chops or even chicken thighs if you prefer another protein.
Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for this dish, as they yield creamy results. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced potatoes can be a good alternative.
Onion: I use yellow onions for their sweetness when cooked. If you want a milder taste, try using sweet onions or even shallots.
Cream or Milk: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich, but you can substitute with half-and-half or even a lower-fat milk. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to mix it up with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
How Can You Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is a key technique to lock in moisture and flavor. Getting that nice golden crust is super important. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a dry chop; pat it down with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear!
- Preheat your skillet on medium-high heat. Let the oil heat up until it’s shimmering.
- Add the pork chops without overcrowding the pan. This allows them to sear instead of steam.
- Don’t move the chops around! Let them cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Use tongs to flip them carefully.
Letting them rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps them juicy. Enjoy your perfectly seared pork chops in the casserole!
How to Make Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delectable casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 55 minutes of baking time in the oven. In just over an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s perfect for the family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pork Chops:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating, season the pork chops on both sides with salt and pepper. This little step adds so much flavor!
2. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, just until they have a beautiful golden brown crust. When they are ready, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Aromatic Base:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing until the onion is softened—about 3 minutes. This will create a delicious foundation for your sauce.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, stir in the flour to cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk or cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in thyme, rosemary, and cheddar cheese if you’re using it. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Now it’s time to layer! In a greased casserole dish, place half of the sliced potatoes evenly on one side. Pour half of the creamy sauce over these potatoes and sprinkle some of the sautéed onions on top. Then, place your seared pork chops on the other side of the dish.
6. Finish Layers and Bake:
Layer the remaining sliced potatoes over the pork chops, and pour the rest of the sauce evenly over everything. Cover the casserole loosely with foil, and bake it in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes.
7. Uncover and Brown:
For the final touch, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and everything looks golden and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and maybe a sprig of rosemary for a pop of color before serving. Dig in and enjoy your wonderful Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes Casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for creaminess, you can also use red or new potatoes. Just keep in mind that they may not get as soft, so adjust your cooking time if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free version, unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk will work, but the flavor may be slightly different.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. When you’re ready to bake, it might need a few extra minutes in the oven since it will be cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave if you’re short on time.
