If you’re in the mood for a comforting, hearty dinner, this Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake is the perfect choice. Juicy pork chops smothered in a garlic butter sauce, paired with a creamy, cheesy potato bake, make this dish an ideal meal for family dinners or even a special occasion. It’s full of flavor, easy to make, and uses simple ingredients that come together to create a satisfying dinner everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Pork Chops: The garlic butter sauce makes these pork chops incredibly juicy and flavorful.
- Comforting Side Dish: The cheesy potato bake is creamy and cheesy, making it a comforting accompaniment to the savory pork chops.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe comes together without a lot of fuss, yet delivers a gourmet flavor.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Cheesy Potato Bake:
- 4-5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Potato Bake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Assemble the Cheesy Potato Bake
- Layer the Potatoes: Arrange the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Cream Mixture: In a bowl, combine the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
- Dot with Butter: Dot the top with the small pieces of butter.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Cook the Garlic Butter Pork Chops
- Season the Pork Chops: While the potatoes are baking, season the pork chops with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the Pork Chops: Return the pork chops to the skillet, spoon the garlic butter sauce over them, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C)).
4. Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the garlic butter pork chops alongside a generous portion of the cheesy potato bake.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Pork Chops and Cheesy Potato Bake
- Slicing Potatoes: Try to slice the potatoes evenly so they cook through at the same rate. A mandoline slicer can be very helpful for this.
- Resting the Pork Chops: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to ensure they stay juicy and tender.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella in the potato bake for different flavor profiles.
Variations
- Add Veggies: Add sliced onions or mushrooms to the skillet with the pork chops for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat.
- Herb Butter: Add fresh rosemary or sage to the butter for an aromatic twist that pairs well with pork.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork chops and potatoes in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I make the potato bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesy potato bake ahead of time. Assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time.
Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake is a meal that brings comfort, flavor, and warmth to the table. With tender pork chops coated in a buttery garlic sauce and a creamy, cheesy potato side dish, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering. Try it out and enjoy the rich, savory flavors that make this dish so special.
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your tastes, and enjoy cooking this delicious meal for your loved ones!
