Mama’s Casserole Pork Chops: A Comforting Family Favorite

Mama’s Casserole Pork Chops is a classic dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This hearty recipe combines tender pork chops with savory sauces and aromatic spices, creating a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Passed down through generations, Mama’s Casserole Pork Chops is sure to become a beloved favorite in your family as well. Join us as we recreate this timeless recipe and bring the flavors of home cooking to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

4-5 pork chops
1 onion, sliced
1 tomato, sliced
1/3 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup brown vinegar
1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef stock
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Optional: crushed garlic, chili flakes

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, brown the pork chops over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and tomatoes. Cook until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
Add the tomato sauce, brown vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, beef stock, brown sugar, and any optional ingredients such as crushed garlic or chili flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce mixture.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through, and the sauce has thickened.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the pork chops with the sauce spooned over the top, alongside your favorite side dishes.

Cook Notes and Variations:

For added flavor, you can marinate the pork chops in the sauce mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce before baking.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, or paprika would all be delicious additions.
You can also experiment with different types of vinegar or sauces to suit your taste preferences.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Simply cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil or transfer the mixture to a baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover pork chops and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

Q: How can I make a keto-friendly version of this recipe?

A: To make a keto-friendly version, you can substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. You can also reduce the amount of tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce to lower the carb content.

Mama’s Casserole Pork Chops is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home and a reminder of cherished family traditions. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish captures the essence of comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a hearty meal, Mama’s Casserole Pork Chops is sure to satisfy. So gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the comforting flavors of this timeless classic.