Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

This Creamy Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Bake brings together tender, juicy pork chops with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, all smothered in a rich, savory sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a hearty dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can create a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to enjoy a classic home-cooked meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire.

Full Recipe:

  • 6 boneless thick cut loin pork chops
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cups potatoes, sliced very thin (mandoline recommended)
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 1/4 cup milk

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and adobo seasoning until evenly coated. Set aside.
  3. Butter a 2-quart baking dish.
  4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic, then the seasoned pork chops. Cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
  5. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and add the sliced onion. Cook until soft.
  6. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and gradually add the milk, stirring until well combined. Set aside.
  7. Layer the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  8. Place the browned pork chops on top of the potatoes, then pour the soup mixture over the chops, ensuring even coverage.
  9. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  10. Optionally, sprinkle with parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 70 minutes | Total Time: 85 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Introduction to Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

The Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. This dish combines tender, well-seasoned pork chops with thinly sliced, creamy potatoes, all baked together in a rich, savory sauce. It’s a one-dish meal that brings hearty flavors to your table, making it perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or even special gatherings. This casserole is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, which makes it a favorite for both novice and seasoned cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this recipe truly shine is its versatility and universal appeal. The combination of protein and starch creates a filling and balanced meal that doesn’t require side dishes, although pairing it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables adds a delightful contrast. Here are a few reasons why this dish is beloved:

  • Ultimate Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender potatoes provide a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reminiscent of home-cooked meals from childhood.
  • One-Dish Wonder: With everything layered in a single casserole, it’s a breeze to prepare, cook, and clean up.
  • Customizable: The seasoning on the pork chops and the sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences, making it adaptable for various flavor profiles.
  • Impressive Presentation: When served, the golden top and neatly layered potatoes create a visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress guests.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

Although this casserole is straightforward to prepare, a few tips can help you elevate it to the next level:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh potatoes, a high-quality cut of pork chops, and fresh spices.
  • Slice Potatoes Evenly: To ensure the potatoes cook evenly, slice them as thinly as possible, ideally using a mandoline slicer. Uniform slices also make for a neater presentation.
  • Sear the Pork Chops: Browning the pork chops before layering them in the casserole adds a depth of flavor and locks in their juices, ensuring they remain tender and flavorful.
  • Don’t Skip the Butter: The butter adds richness and enhances the flavors of the dish, especially in the sauce.
  • Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

The Magic of Layering

One of the standout features of this dish is the layering technique. Starting with the thinly sliced potatoes at the base, followed by the browned pork chops, and topped with the creamy sauce, each layer has a distinct role:

  • Potatoes: The base layer absorbs the savory flavors of the sauce while maintaining a tender yet firm texture.
  • Pork Chops: Nestled between the potatoes and sauce, the pork chops retain their juiciness and soak in the surrounding flavors.
  • Creamy Sauce: The sauce not only binds the layers but also infuses the dish with a rich, hearty flavor that complements the pork and potatoes perfectly.

Pairing Suggestions

Although the casserole is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance the dining experience with a few complementary sides:

  • Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish, adding freshness to the meal.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots provide a healthy, colorful addition to the plate.
  • Rustic Bread: A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Occasions to Serve Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

This casserole is incredibly versatile and fits a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, it’s an excellent choice. Some ideal occasions include:

  • Family Dinners: The comforting flavors and hearty portions make it a hit with both kids and adults.
  • Holiday Gatherings: Its rich, indulgent nature makes it suitable for festive celebrations like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
  • Potlucks: Easy to transport and reheat, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser at community meals or office lunches.
  • Date Nights at Home: Impress your partner with this cozy, restaurant-quality dish that’s made with love.

Customizing the Recipe for Dietary Needs

This recipe is adaptable, making it suitable for various dietary requirements:

  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version with gluten-free flour.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and milk with dairy-free alternatives such as vegan butter and almond milk.
  • Lower Sodium: Reduce the amount of salt in the seasoning and use a low-sodium soup.
  • Vegetable Boost: Add layers of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the best things about this dish is that it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. To store and reheat:

  • Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.

The Perfect Comfort Food Conclusion

Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is a timeless recipe that brings together the best of hearty, home-cooked flavors in a single dish. Its creamy sauce, tender pork, and perfectly cooked potatoes create a meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests, this casserole is a reliable go-to option.

By following a few simple tips and experimenting with flavors, you can make this dish uniquely yours. The casserole is versatile enough to adapt to different occasions and dietary preferences, making it a staple in any kitchen. Once you serve it, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of the most requested dishes in your home!

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