Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying dinner that pairs crispy, flavorful pork chops with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes, you've come to the right place! This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight or for a special family dinner. Read on to discover the step-by-step process, tips, and tricks to perfect this mouthwatering dish every time!

What Are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are juicy, bone-in or boneless pork chops coated in a delicious mixture of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked or pan-fried to perfection. Pair them with cheesy scalloped potatoes—thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a rich, creamy sauce made from melted cheese and cream—and you have a dinner that will impress any guest or family member.

The combination of crispy, savory pork chops with the rich and indulgent scalloped potatoes creates a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors that’s sure to be a hit.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops:

• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (for color and flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for frying)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Ingredients List for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4-5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

Substitutions and Variations

• Pork Chops: Feel free to swap pork chops for chicken breasts if you prefer poultry. The same garlic-Parmesan coating works great with chicken.
• Potatoes: Instead of russet potatoes, you can use Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a twist.
• Cheese: If you don't have sharp cheddar, try mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack. Each type of cheese will give the scalloped potatoes a unique flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will do the trick. You can also skip them for a gluten-free version by using almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
• Dairy: Swap out the heavy cream for milk or half-and-half for a lighter version of the scalloped potatoes. You can also use dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Season the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Make the garlic-Parmesan coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the pork chops: Dip each pork chop into the garlic-Parmesan mixture, pressing the coating onto the meat to make sure it sticks well.

Step 2: Cook the Pork Chops

1. Pan-fry the pork chops: Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
   • If the pork chops are thick, you may want to finish them off in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to ensure they're fully cooked through.
2. Rest the pork chops: Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a plate and cover them loosely with foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes to keep the juices inside.

Step 3: Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven: While cooking the pork chops, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the cream sauce: In a small saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, then remove it from heat.
3. Layer the potatoes: In a greased baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Repeat the layers: Add the remaining potatoes, top with the rest of the cream sauce, and sprinkle generously with more cheese.
5. Bake the potatoes: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat your skillet or oven: Whether you're pan-frying or baking, ensure that your cooking surface is preheated properly.
2. Season your pork chops: Don't skimp on seasoning! Salt and pepper help to enhance the natural flavors of the pork, and the Parmesan-garlic coating adds depth.
3. Cook over medium heat: Cooking too quickly over high heat can burn the garlic and cheese mixture before the pork is fully cooked. Medium heat ensures even cooking.
4. Rest the meat: After cooking, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices and ensures a tender, juicy bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pork Chops: Pork can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Burning the Coating: Cook the pork chops over medium heat to prevent the garlic and cheese mixture from burning.
• Not Slicing the Potatoes Thinly Enough: If your potato slices are too thick, they’ll take longer to cook. Aim for uniform slices about ⅛ inch thick for even cooking.
• Undercooking the Potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are tender by piercing them with a fork before taking them out of the oven.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Garnish: Sprinkle the pork chops with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
• Lemon: Serve with lemon wedges on the side to add a bit of brightness to the rich, cheesy meal.
• Side Dishes: A simple green salad or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus can complement the richness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• On a platter: Arrange the pork chops on one side of a large serving platter and the scalloped potatoes on the other. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Individual plates: Serve each person a pork chop with a portion of scalloped potatoes on a large plate. Add a pop of color with a side of steamed green beans or sautéed spinach.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin potato slices.
• Add extra garlic if you’re a garlic lover for a bolder flavor.
• Check the cheese: For the best melt, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
A: Yes! Both work well, though bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier due to the bone's insulation during cooking.

Q: Can I make scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can prepare the scalloped potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them in the oven before serving.

Q: What can I use as a gluten-free breadcrumb substitute?
A: Almond flour or crushed pork rinds are great gluten-free alternatives.

Q: How do I know when the pork chops are done?
A: The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a meal that combines crispy, savory pork with creamy, cheesy potatoes for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This is comfort food at its finest, ideal for both family dinners and special occasions. Follow this guide step by step, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time!

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