Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that combines tender, juicy pork chops with rich, creamy scalloped potatoes. This classic comfort food dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The blend of savory pork chops and the cheesy, velvety texture of scalloped potatoes creates a harmonious dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes is a quintessential comfort food dish that brings together savory, juicy pork chops with rich, creamy potatoes. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it a timeless classic. Happy cooking!!

Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make this delightful meal step-by-step.

INGREDIENTS:

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Season the Pork Chops: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In the same skillet used for the pork chops, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Stir in the salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Layer the Potatoes and Onions: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish, followed by a layer of sliced onions. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and onions. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce.

Step 3: Bake the Dish

6. Add the Pork Chops: Place the seared pork chops on top of the layered potatoes and cheese sauce in the baking dish.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
   • Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
8. Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

9. Serve: Serve the pork chops alongside the scalloped potatoes, ensuring each serving includes a generous portion of the creamy, cheesy potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

• Uniform Slices: For even cooking, try to slice the potatoes and onions uniformly. A mandoline slicer can be very helpful for this.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A mix of cheddar and Gruyère or Swiss can add a deeper flavor.
• Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest after baking ensures the sauce thickens properly and the flavors meld together.