Are you looking for a delicious, hearty, and easy-to-make meal that will have your family asking for seconds? Look no further than this pork chops with scalloped potatoes recipe! Packed with tender pork chops, creamy and cheesy potatoes, and simple yet flavorful ingredients, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering. Read on to discover how to make this scrumptious dish, learn helpful tips, and avoid common cooking mistakes to ensure your pork chops with scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly every time.
What are Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes?
Pork chops with scalloped potatoes is a classic comfort food dish that brings together two beloved staples: juicy pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes. Scalloped potatoes refer to thinly sliced potatoes that are layered and baked in a creamy sauce, often with cheese. When paired with pork chops, this meal is a wonderful combination of savory flavors and textures. The cheese melts into the potatoes while the pork chops absorb the flavors of the creamy sauce, resulting in a dish that's both hearty and indulgent.
Ingredients List for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes
To get started, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 5 medium white or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 5 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, depending on your preference)
- 1 medium onion, sliced or diced (adds flavor and texture)
- 1 cup whole milk (for the creamy sauce)
- 3 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded (sharp or mild)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (adds richness to the dish)
- Salt and pepper to taste (seasoning the potatoes and pork chops)
- Optional ingredients:
- Chives or green onions for garnish (adds a pop of color and flavor)
- A sprinkle of seasoning salt for added flavor
- A pinch of garlic salt for a subtle garlic kick
Ingredients List for the Sauce
The creamy sauce is a crucial element of scalloped potatoes and really elevates the dish. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients for the sauce, which brings everything together:
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper (adjust to taste)
- Optional seasoning salt or garlic salt
The sauce gives the potatoes their rich, creamy texture and cheesy flavor, making every bite melt in your mouth.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about pork chops with scalloped potatoes is how versatile the recipe is. Whether you're looking to make it a little healthier or customize it to suit your taste, there are many ways to switch things up. Here are some ideas:
- Cheese: While Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can use other types like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan. Gruyère will add a nutty flavor, while mozzarella will provide extra creaminess.
- Milk Alternatives: You can substitute whole milk with half-and-half, heavy cream for an even richer sauce, or use a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk to make the dish dairy-free.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the potato layers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Seasoning: You can experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, thyme, or rosemary to add depth to the dish. A dash of hot sauce can also give the potatoes a little heat if you enjoy spicier flavors.
- Protein Alternatives: If you prefer, you can swap pork chops for chicken breasts or thighs for a different protein option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients and substitutions in mind, let’s get into the details of preparing this mouthwatering meal.
How to Cook Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing your oven in advance ensures that everything cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash, peel (if desired), and slice the potatoes thinly. The thinner the slices, the quicker they will cook, and the more evenly they will layer with the creamy sauce. Aim for ⅛-inch thick slices using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for precision.
Step 3: Season the Pork Chops
Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of seasoning salt (if using). For extra flavor, you can rub in some garlic salt or paprika.
Step 4: Sauté the Onions and Pork Chops
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of the unsalted butter. Add the onions and sauté them until they become translucent. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, sear the pork chops on both sides for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned. This step ensures that the pork chops develop a delicious crust and are packed with flavor.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and allow it to heat through, but not boil. Gradually add the shredded Cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Layer the Potatoes and Sauce
In a greased baking dish, create your scalloped potato layers. Start by spreading a single layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Add a few of the sautéed onions over the potatoes, and then pour some of the creamy cheese sauce over the top. Repeat this process until all the potatoes, onions, and sauce are used up.
Step 7: Add the Pork Chops
Arrange the seared pork chops on top of the layered potatoes and sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake, covered, for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the pork chops are fully cooked (internal temperature of 145°F or 63°C) and the potatoes are tender. The top should be golden and bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your pork chops with scalloped potatoes turn out perfectly, avoid these common cooking mistakes:
- Overcooking the Pork Chops: Pork can become dry and tough if overcooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Thick Potato Slices: Make sure the potato slices are thin. Thick slices can result in uneven cooking and chewy textures.
- Skipping the Searing Step: Searing the pork chops before baking helps lock in juices and adds flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Not Enough Sauce: Make sure you have enough sauce to cover the potatoes evenly. You want each layer of potatoes to be generously coated in the cheese sauce.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation plays an important role in making any meal more appetizing. Here are a few tips to serve pork chops with scalloped potatoes in style:
How to Serve Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes
- Serve the dish hot out of the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Spoon some of the creamy scalloped potatoes onto each plate and top with a pork chop. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or green onions for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Presentation Ideas for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes
- Use a large serving dish or casserole dish, and bring it straight from the oven to the table for a rustic, family-style presentation.
- If serving individually, you can garnish each plate with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, and a side of vegetables like roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli for added color and nutrition.
Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips
- For an extra crispy topping, you can sprinkle some additional shredded Cheddar cheese or breadcrumbs on top of the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- If you're short on time, you can partially cook the potatoes in the microwave for a few minutes to speed up the baking process.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in pork chops?
A: Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but be careful not to overcook them as they tend to dry out more quickly than bone-in pork chops.
Q: Can I freeze pork chops with scalloped potatoes?
A: While it’s possible to freeze this dish, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing. For best results, store leftovers in the fridge and eat within a few days.
Q: What sides go well with pork chops and scalloped potatoes?
A: Steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad pair well with this hearty dish.
Conclusion
Pork chops with scalloped potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender, juicy pork with rich and creamy potatoes for a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and adaptable, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this delicious recipe today, and don't be surprised when it's requested time and again!
Enjoy your meal!
PrintPork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
This Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe delivers a delicious, comforting meal. Made with tender pork chops, creamy potatoes, and flavorful cheddar cheese, it's a classic dish that's perfect for family dinners. This recipe combines simple ingredients like whole milk, butter, and onions for a rich, savory taste. Add chives or seasoning salt for extra flavor. Ideal for anyone looking for an easy-to-follow pork and potato recipe.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 5 white or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 5 pork chops
- 1 onion (sliced or diced)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chives or green onions, seasoning salt, garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice potatoes thinly and arrange them in a baking dish.
- In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté onions until soft.
- Layer the sautéed onions over the potatoes.
- Pour the milk evenly over the potatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Layer the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and optional seasoning salt or garlic salt.
- Place pork chops on top of the potatoes and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until potatoes are tender and pork chops are fully cooked.
- Garnish with optional chives or green onions.
Notes
- For added flavor, season the pork chops with garlic salt or your favorite seasoning mix.
- Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture, but any variety will do.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with potatoes
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
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