If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying dinner, this Mustard Pork Chops with Creamy Scalloped Potatoesrecipe is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. The tender, juicy pork chops are seasoned with Dijon mustard and garlic, while the rich, cheesy scalloped potatoes make for an ideal side. This classic comfort dish is not only easy to prepare but is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Mustard Pork Chops
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for tangy flavor)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (for searing)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredients for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon gold or russet work best)
- 2 cups heavy cream (for the creamy sauce)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra richness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (adds an herbal note)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a subtle smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Mustard Pork Chops
1. Preheat and Season the Pork Chops
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Rub Dijon mustard evenly on both sides of each pork chop.
2. Sear the Pork Chops
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown. You don’t need to cook them through, as they will finish in the oven.
- Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
Instructions for Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
1. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour, and cook for another 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
2. Add the Cheese and Spices
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the sauce.
- Season the sauce with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
3. Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potato layer, then repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
4. Bake the Potatoes
- Place the scalloped potatoes in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes covered.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil, and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden on top.
4. Bake the Pork Chops
- While the potatoes are baking uncovered, place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes (or on a separate baking sheet).
- Bake the pork chops for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Cook’s Notes and Tips:
- Potato Slicing Tip: To ensure even cooking, slice the potatoes as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer works great for this.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix things up by using other types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or a sharp white cheddar.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the scalloped potatoes ahead of time. Assemble and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
Variations of Mustard Pork Chops with Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
1. Keto-Friendly Version
If you’re following a keto diet, you can easily adapt this recipe:
- Replace the potatoes with thinly sliced zucchini or cauliflower. These vegetables are low in carbs and still give you that comforting baked dish experience.
- Swap the flour in the cream sauce with almond flour or simply omit it to keep the carbs lower.
Ingredients for Keto Scalloped “Potatoes”:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large zucchinis or 1 head cauliflower, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions for Keto Version:
Follow the same instructions as the original recipe, replacing potatoes with zucchini or cauliflower.
2. Low-Carb Version
For those looking for a low-carb option, you can make the following swaps:
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes to reduce the overall carb count while adding a unique flavor twist.
- Lighten up the cream sauce by using half heavy cream and half unsweetened almond milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless?
Yes, bone-in pork chops will work well in this recipe. However, keep in mind that bone-in pork chops may take a little longer to cook. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pork chops and scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
Yes, scalloped potatoes can be frozen. After baking, let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 375°F for about 30 minutes.
4. What side dishes go well with this meal?
Pair this dish with a light vegetable side such as roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed green beans, or a simple garden salad. A refreshing side dish balances the richness of the pork chops and creamy potatoes.
Comfort Food at Its Best
Mustard Pork Chops with Creamy Scalloped Potatoes is a meal that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. With variations to suit different diets like keto and low-carb, everyone at the table can enjoy this delicious meal.
