Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes is a timeless, hearty dish that brings together tender, succulent pork chops and rich, creamy scalloped potatoes. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please even the pickiest eaters. The pork chops are seasoned and seared to golden perfection before being simmered in a savory garlic and herb sauce. At the same time, the scalloped potatoes are layered with a creamy cheese sauce, creating a mouthwatering harmony of tastes. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in, this dish will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Scalloped Potatoes:
4-5 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Pork Chops:
Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Make the Scalloped Potatoes:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Assemble the Dish:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes and onions.
Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
Arrange the remaining potatoes and onions on top, and pour the rest of the cheese sauce over them.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top if using.
Bake the Scalloped Potatoes:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
Finish Cooking the Pork Chops:
While the potatoes are baking, return the skillet to medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Return the pork chops to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the pork chops are cooked through and tender.
Combine and Serve:
After 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil from the scalloped potatoes and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the potatoes rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Serve the pork chops with a generous helping of scalloped potatoes on the side.