This Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. With tender pork chops, creamy scalloped potatoes, and a savory sauce, this casserole is a meal in itself that combines all the classic flavors of home-cooked goodness. It’s an easy-to-prepare dish that’s sure to become a favorite.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 4-6 bone-in or boneless pork chops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.

Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork chops and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. They do not need to be cooked through at this point. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, chicken broth, dried thyme, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Pour half of the sauce over the potatoes and spread it evenly.
3. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce.
4. Arrange the seared pork chops on top of the cheese layer.
5. Add the remaining sliced potatoes over the pork chops.
6. Pour the rest of the sauce over the top, spreading it to cover the potatoes.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Thinly Slice the Potatoes: Use a mandoline slicer if you have one to get even, thin slices. This will ensure the potatoes cook evenly.
• Seasoning: Feel free to add additional seasoning to the sauce, such as cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Boneless vs. Bone-In: Both boneless and bone-in pork chops work well for this recipe, but bone-in chops may add a bit more flavor.

Variations

• Mushroom Lovers: Add fresh sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheese Options: Swap out the cheddar for Gruyere or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor profile.
• Vegetable Additions: Add a layer of sliced bell peppers or spinach for added vegetables.
• Creamy Alternative: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or a homemade creamy sauce for a different twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, and bake it when ready. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it is cold from the fridge.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

3. Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops?

Yes, boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. Just be sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than bone-in chops.

4. What Can I Serve With This Casserole?

This casserole is quite filling on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots.

Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting meal that combines tender pork chops with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying on a cozy family night. With layers of flavor and a rich, savory sauce, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Give it a try and savor the comfort of a classic home-cooked meal!