Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Sizzling Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe – A Hearty Classic

Creamy, comforting pork chops with scalloped potatoes invite you into a world of hearty home cooking.

Layers of thinly sliced potatoes nestled between tender meat create a classic comfort meal.

Cheese melts beautifully between potato rounds, adding rich depth to every forkful.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet satisfying solutions like this delectable dish.

Southern kitchens have perfected this combination of savory protein and silky potato layers.

Crisp edges and golden-brown surfaces promise a delightful culinary experience that’ll make everyone at the table smile.

Dive into this recipe and savor each delicious bite.

Serving Suggestions for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

  • Comfort Food Feast: Perfect for family dinners or cozy weekend meals, this hearty dish brings warmth to your table.
  • Wine Pairing Paradise: Complement the rich, creamy potatoes and savory pork with a crisp Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir to balance the flavors.
  • Green Veggie Companion: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp garden salad to add freshness and balance the richness of the main dish.
  • Leftover Magic: Transform remaining pork chops and potatoes into a delicious breakfast hash topped with a fried egg for a next-day treat.

Storage Tips for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the dish remains sealed to prevent moisture loss and absorption of other food odors.
  • Transfer cooled pork chops and potatoes to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Properly stored, the meal can last up to 2 months. Avoid freezing for longer to maintain quality.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Cover dish with foil to prevent drying out. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes for crispy top.

FAQs

  • Why should I sear the pork chops before baking?

Searing locks in the meat’s juices and creates a delicious golden-brown crust, enhancing the flavor and preventing the pork from becoming dry during baking.

  • Can I use different types of cheese in the sauce?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with gruyere, monterey jack, or a blend of cheeses for varied flavor profiles while maintaining a creamy texture.

  • How thin should I slice the potatoes for scalloped potatoes?

Slice potatoes uniformly about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.

  • Is heavy cream necessary for the sauce?

While heavy cream adds richness, you can use whole milk or half-and-half as alternatives, though the sauce might be slightly less creamy.

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes: Why You’ll Love It

  • Craft a Comforting Meal: Dive into a heartwarming dish that combines golden-seared pork chops with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
  • Master a Restaurant-Quality Dish at Home: Impress your family and friends with a professional-looking meal that requires minimal cooking skills and delivers maximum flavor.
  • Versatile One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy a complete meal with protein and sides cooked together, making cleanup a breeze and saving you precious time in the kitchen.
  • Customize to Your Taste: Easily swap ingredients or add extra seasonings to make this recipe uniquely yours, perfect for adapting to different dietary preferences or pantry supplies.

Ingredients Needed for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

Meat:
  • Pork Chops: A classic protein that provides a rich and hearty flavor for this comforting dish.
Potato and Onion Base:
  • Potatoes, Onions: Potatoes create a creamy, tender foundation for the dish, while onions add a subtle sweet and savory depth.
Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Butter, Flour: These ingredients create a classic roux that thickens the creamy sauce.
  • Milk, Heavy Cream: These dairy products provide a rich and smooth base for the cheese sauce.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp and tangy flavor that enhances the overall richness of the dish.
  • Olive Oil: Helps to sear the pork chops and create a golden-brown exterior.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: These seasonings provide a well-rounded and aromatic flavor profile for both the pork chops and the sauce.
  • Thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
Optional Toppings:
  • Parmesan Cheese, Breadcrumbs, Fresh Parsley: These ingredients add extra texture, flavor, and a fresh finish to the dish.

Cooking Instructions for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

Step 1: Warm Up the Kitchen

Set your oven to a cozy 375F (190C).

This temperature will help create a perfectly golden and delicious meal.

Step 2: Spice Up the Pork Chops

Generously coat the pork chops with a magical blend of:
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Step 3: Sizzle and Brown

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Gently place the seasoned pork chops and let them dance in the pan for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Transfer the chops to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Base

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.

Step 5: Pour and Thicken

Slowly stream in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly.

Let the mixture simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Cheese It Up

Stir in a delightful mix of:
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Thyme (optional)

Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a luxurious, creamy sauce.

Step 7: Layer the Potato Masterpiece

In a greased baking dish, create beautiful layers of sliced potatoes and onions.

Pour half the cream sauce over the first layer.

Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.

Step 8: Top and Dress

Gently place the seared pork chops on top of the potato layers.

For extra pizzazz, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 10: Serve with Flair

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve this mouthwatering dish straight from the oven.

Pro Tips for Juicy Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

  • Choose thick, bone-in pork chops for maximum juiciness and better flavor retention during baking.
  • Grease the baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy serving and clean removal.
  • Whisk the cream sauce slowly and steadily to avoid lumps, creating a smooth and creamy texture for the potatoes.
  • Arrange potato slices evenly and overlap them slightly to ensure uniform cooking and consistent sauce distribution.
  • Remove foil during the last 15 minutes to allow the top to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust with crispy edges.

Variations to Try with Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes

  • Vegetarian Potato Gratin: Replace pork chops with thick-sliced portobello mushrooms or firm tofu, seasoned with similar spices for a plant-based alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour for the cream sauce, and swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or almond flour to maintain the crispy topping.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute potato slices with thinly sliced cauliflower, keeping the creamy cheese sauce and protein layer for a keto-friendly version.
  • Greek-Inspired Variation: Use feta cheese instead of cheddar, add oregano and mint, and top with chicken breast marinated in lemon and garlic for a Mediterranean-style dish.
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Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe


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4.9 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes blend hearty Southern comfort with elegant French technique. Creamy potato layers and juicy seasoned pork create a satisfying meal you will savor from first bite to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Oil:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle for even cooking.
  2. Generously coat pork chops with a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, massaging the seasonings into the meat.
  3. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, creating a rich golden-brown crust. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to develop a smooth, fragrant roux.
  5. Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Incorporate cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and thyme, stirring until the cheese melts completely and creates a luxurious, creamy sauce.
  7. Grease a baking dish and create alternating layers of sliced potatoes and onions, pouring cream sauce between each layer to ensure even distribution.
  8. Carefully arrange the seared pork chops atop the potato layers. Optionally, dust with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for added texture.
  9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become tender and absorb the creamy sauce.
  10. Remove foil and continue baking for 15 more minutes until the top turns golden and crispy, and potatoes are fork-tender.
  11. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, revealing the layers of creamy potatoes and perfectly cooked pork chops.

Notes

  • Choose thick-cut pork chops for juicier results and better searing, preventing dry meat during baking.
  • Use a mandoline slicer for uniform potato slices, ensuring even cooking and a professional presentation.
  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version without compromising creamy texture.
  • Add smoked paprika or cayenne for extra flavor depth and subtle heat in the spice blend.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 283 kcal
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 296 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 0 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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