Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes is a heartwarming and satisfying dish that brings together the best of comforting home cooking. This classic meal features tender, juicy pork chops paired with a creamy, cheesy side of scalloped potatoes, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The pork chops are expertly seasoned and seared to achieve a crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the inside moist and succulent. Each chop is cooked to perfection, with a savory, slightly smoky flavor enhanced by simple, yet effective seasonings. The result is a dish that’s both flavorful and hearty, offering a satisfying bite that complements the rich side of scalloped potatoes.
The scalloped potatoes are the star of the show, showcasing layers of thinly sliced potatoes enveloped in a luscious, creamy cheese sauce. This sauce, made from a blend of heavy cream and milk, is infused with the savory flavors of garlic, onion, and a hint of thyme. As the dish bakes, the cheese sauce thickens and bubbles, creating a golden, bubbly top that adds a delightful crunch to each serving.
This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the creamy, cheesy potatoes contrasting beautifully with the perfectly browned pork chops. The layers of potatoes are tender and flavorful, absorbing the richness of the cheese sauce and the spices, while the pork chops add a hearty, meaty component to the plate.
Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food, ideal for family dinners or special occasions. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a beloved classic that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table, ensuring that every meal feels both indulgent and fulfilling.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
For the Scalloped Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, rosemary (if using), salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes, overlapping them slightly. Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure they are well coated.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- While the potatoes are baking, season the pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme (if using).
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are well browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve:
- Once the scalloped potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the pork chops alongside a generous helping of the scalloped potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips:
- Uniform Potato Slices: For even cooking, slice the potatoes uniformly, either by hand or with a mandoline slicer.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
- Resting the Pork Chops: Allow the pork chops to rest after cooking to ensure they remain juicy and tender.
Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes is a classic, comforting dish that combines savory, succulent pork with creamy, cheesy potatoes. The richness of the scalloped potatoes pairs perfectly with the seasoned pork chops, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
