This Easy Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food, blending savory flavors and rich textures into one delicious meal. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want to treat your family to something extra special.
The first time I made this casserole, I was aiming to recreate a dish I remembered from my childhood. My grandmother used to make the most incredible pork chops, and I wanted to bring a bit of that nostalgia to my own kitchen. As the casserole baked, the enticing aroma filled the house, and I was immediately transported back to her cozy kitchen. My family gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting the first bite. The combination of juicy pork chops and creamy potatoes was a hit, and it quickly became a family favorite.
This dish is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Quick Overview: A Todd Wilbur-Inspired Summary
Easy Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole combines tender, juicy pork chops with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes for a comforting and delicious meal. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, offering a hearty and satisfying flavor experience.
A Family Favorite: An Exciting Story
One evening, I decided to recreate a dish that brought back fond memories of my grandmother’s kitchen. Her pork chops were legendary, and I wanted to capture that magic. As the casserole baked, the wonderful aroma filled the house, and I felt a wave of nostalgia. My family gathered around the table, excited to taste the dish. The combination of tender pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes was a hit, and now it’s a beloved recipe in our home. This casserole has become our go-to comfort food, perfect for any occasion.
Why This Easy Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole?
Hearty Comfort Food: Combines tender pork chops with creamy, cheesy potatoes.
Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Versatile: Great for weeknight dinners or weekend family meals.
Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults.
How to Make Easy Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes.
- Thinly slice the onion.
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Pork Chops:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the sliced onions.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce.
- Place the browned pork chops on top of the potato mixture.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips For Easy Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for this recipe.
- Cheese: Feel free to use a mix of your favorite cheeses for added flavor.
- Browning: Ensure the pork chops are well-browned for added flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat: Use boneless pork chops or chicken breasts if preferred.
- Cheese: Substitute with Gruyere, Swiss, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Make a Healthier Version
- Low-Fat: Use low-fat cheese and milk instead of heavy cream.
- Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt.
And there you have it! Don’t forget to let us know how your Easy Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes:
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, boneless pork chops can be used; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese or a mix of cheeses.
What type of potatoes work best? Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes, mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli would be great additions.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking? Make sure to grease the baking dish well and use a non-stick skillet for the sauce.
Can I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute the cheese, cream, and butter with dairy-free alternatives.
What can I serve with this dish? Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor and texture.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker? Yes, assemble the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Course: Casserole, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
4 bone-in pork chops
6 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups heavy cream
2 cups chicken broth
4 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes.
- Thinly slice the onion.
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Pork Chops:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the sliced onions.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce.
- Place the browned pork chops on top of the potato mixture.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!