Hearty Comfort in a Casserole: Pork Chops and Hash Browns Casserole Recipe

Are you searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying? Look no further than this Pork Chops and Hash Browns Casserole. Packed with tender pork chops, crispy hash browns, and creamy sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Join us as we explore how to create this delicious casserole, along with cooking tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Ingredients:

Meat:

• 6 Boneless pork chops

Produce:

• 6 oz French fried onions
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder

Canned Goods:

• 10 1/2 oz Cream of celery soup

Baking & Spices:

• 1/4 tsp Pepper
• Seasoned salt, to taste

Oils & Vinegars:

• 1 tbsp Vegetable oil

Dairy:

• 4 tbsp Butter
• 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1/2 cup Sour cream

Other:

• 32 ounces Frozen hash browns (1 bag)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare Pork Chops: Season both sides of the pork chops with garlic powder, pepper, and seasoned salt.
3. Brown Pork Chops: In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Brown the pork chops on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare Sauce: In a large bowl, combine cream of celery soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the French fried onions. Mix until well combined.
5. Assemble Casserole: Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish. Place the browned pork chops on top of the hash browns. Pour the sauce mixture over the pork chops and hash browns, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
7. Add Toppings: After 45 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining French fried onions over the casserole.
8. Continue Baking: Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pork chops are cooked through.
9. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy topping, crush the French fried onions slightly before sprinkling them over the casserole.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for varied flavor profiles.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the pork chops and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian-friendly version of this casserole.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Replace the frozen hash browns with cauliflower rice or cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
• Substitute the cream of celery soup with a homemade keto-friendly cream sauce made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and chicken broth.

Low-Carb Version:

• Opt for low-carb cream of celery soup or make your own using almond flour, chicken broth, and celery for a lower-carb option.
• Use shredded cauliflower or broccoli florets instead of hash browns to reduce the carb content of the casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless? A: Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pork Chops and Hash Browns Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender pork chops, crispy hash browns, and creamy sauce into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

So why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of home with this delicious casserole. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s guaranteed to warm both hearts and bellies alike. Enjoy every savory bite and savor the moments shared around the dinner table!

Now, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. From our kitchen to yours, bon appétit!