This Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole is a warm, cozy dish that brings comfort to your dinner table. Juicy pork chops sit on a bed of tender potatoes, all baked in a creamy sauce.
It’s so easy to make! Just layer everything in one dish and let the oven do the magic while you relax. Perfect for a family meal or when friends come over. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are convenient, but bone-in works too for more flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using chicken breasts!
Potatoes: Medium white or Yukon Gold potatoes are great for layering. If you’re in a hurry, frozen hash browns can be a quick substitute!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its robust flavor. If you prefer something milder, try using Monterey Jack or Gouda. Vegan cheese works if you want dairy-free!
Heavy Cream: Rich and creamy, but you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Coconut milk is a good non-dairy option too!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh adds the best taste, but you can use onion powder and garlic powder in a pinch. Just adjust your seasoning!
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Casserole?
Cooking this casserole evenly is essential for great results. First, sautéing the potatoes helps them start to soften, ensuring they cook through in the oven.
- Preheat your oven and grease the dish well; it helps prevent sticking.
- Layering is important! Place half the potatoes down first, then the pork, and finish with the remaining potatoes. This helps with even cooking.
- Covering the dish with foil traps steam, which cooks the potatoes quicker. Remove it later to let the cheese brown nicely!
- Always check doneness by poking the potatoes with a fork—if they’re tender, it’s time to enjoy!
By following these tips, your casserole will turn out creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor every time! Enjoy and happy cooking!
Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 45-50 minutes for baking. You’ll spend a short time mixing and layering, followed by a baking period where the flavors meld together beautifully. Perfect for a hearty dinner! 🍽️
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish to make sure nothing sticks during baking.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until they become soft and translucent, filling your kitchen with a tasty aroma!
3. Cook the Potatoes
Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring gently. This will help to soften the potatoes just a bit. Afterward, remove the skillet from heat.
4. Make the Cream Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, paprika, dried thyme (or rosemary), and half of the salt and pepper. This will create a deliciously rich sauce for your casserole!
5. Layer the Casserole
Begin layering by placing half of the sautéed potatoes in the bottom of the casserole dish. Next, arrange the pork chops on top of the potato layer, and then pour half of the cream mixture evenly over the pork chops.
6. Complete the Layers
Add the remaining potatoes on top of the pork chops to make a nice second layer. Then, pour the rest of the cream mixture over everything.
7. Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a creamy and cheesy finish.
8. Bake
Cover the casserole dish with foil to trap moisture, and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is golden brown, bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
9. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish your casserole with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely pop of color. Then, scoop out portions and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with your family or friends!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole with a crispy baked top and tender, flavorful layers! 🍴✨
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops can add extra flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free variation, coconut milk works well and adds a nice flavor to the casserole!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything and assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add about 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep it moist.
