Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re wrapping yourself in your favorite cozy blanket—only tastier. This hearty and comforting meal layers tender, bone-in pork chops with silky scalloped russet potatoes and a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce that stretches with every forkful. There’s something so deeply satisfying about that first bite: the crisp, golden edges of the potatoes gave way to soft, melting cheese, all mingling with juicy pork that’s been seared to lock in flavor. It’s the ultimate family dinner, combining the familiarity of classic comfort fare with a little bit of kitchen-showmanship. Whether you’re gathering around the table on a chilly weeknight or feeding a crowd at Sunday supper, this casserole has all the elements to make everyone’s taste buds do a happy dance.
Even though this dish has the look and feel of something from your favorite comfort-food restaurant, it’s surprisingly approachable for home cooks with an intermediate skill level. In about 20 minutes of hands-on prep time, you’ll have your pork chops seasoned and seared and your potatoes sliced and layered. Then it’s just a matter of letting it bake for about an hour, plus a brief 10-minute rest to let those flavors settle. With roughly 550 calories per serving, it’s indulgent but balanced by fresh garnishes and easy side salads if you’d like a greener touch. From pantry staples like olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika to fresh ingredients such as thyme and parsley, each component has its place—and I can’t wait for you to dive in and taste the harmony you create in your very own kitchen.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SMOTHERED PORK CHOP SCALLOPED POTATO CASSEROLE
Before we get into the step-by-step magic of building this layered casserole, let’s talk about the star players that come together for all that cheesy, creamy goodness. Each ingredient was chosen to add depth, richness, and a little extra homey charm.
- Bone-in pork chops
These meaty chops bring in robust flavor and stay wonderfully juicy thanks to that little bone, which helps distribute heat evenly during cooking.
- Olive oil
A quality extra-virgin olive oil adds a light, fruity note and prevents sticking when we sear the chops in the skillet, creating those crave-worthy browned edges.
- Salt and pepper
The simplest seasonings that provide balance and enhance the natural taste of both the pork and the potatoes.
- Garlic powder
A subtle garlic punch that dissolves smoothly into the dry rub and the sauce, infusing gentle warmth into each layer.
- Onion powder
Adds a sweet-savory undertone that pairs perfectly with the creamy base and fresh onions sautéed later on.
- Russet potatoes
Firm and starchy, these potatoes become tender without falling apart, crafting the classic scalloped texture in every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp and melty, cheddar forms that goopy, golden layer that we all crave in a cheesy casserole.
- Heavy cream
Provides the rich, velvety body of the sauce, ensuring each potato slice is cloaked in lusciousness.
- Chicken broth
Thins out the cream just enough and brings in savory depth that complements the pork chops.
- Cornstarch
Our thickening hero—when stirred into the aromatics, it helps the sauce cling beautifully to potatoes and meat.
- Minced garlic
Fresh garlic adds bite and an invigorating aroma as it softens alongside onions.
- Thinly sliced onion
Caramelizes gently in butter, sweetening the sauce base and adding a tender crunch.
- Fresh thyme
Earthy and slightly floral, thyme brightens the creamy sauce and pairs wonderfully with pork.
- Paprika
Brings a hint of smokiness and a lovely rosy hue to the sauce, lifting the casserole’s visual appeal.
- Unsalted butter
Creates a silky sauté base for the garlic and onion, ensuring everything melds to perfection.
- Fresh parsley
A pop of green and a note of freshness when sprinkled on top just before serving.
HOW TO MAKE SMOTHERED PORK CHOP SCALLOPED POTATO CASSEROLE
Bringing this casserole together is a joyous process of building layers of flavor and texture. By following these steps in sequence, you’ll achieve tender pork chops, creamy scalloped potatoes, and a beautifully golden top that beckons everyone to the table. Let’s walk through each step, making sure you nail those key techniques for maximum deliciousness.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring the oven reaches the correct temperature before baking helps the casserole cook evenly and develop that irresistible crust.
2. Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Press the spices gently into the meat so each chop is coated with an even layer of flavor.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, sear the pork chops for about 3 minutes per side until they develop a deep golden crust. This Maillard reaction locks in juices and creates a flavor-packed exterior. Remove the chops and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic, then sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Sprinkle in the cornstarch, tossing it with the onions and garlic so every piece is coated. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring to avoid lumps. Add fresh thyme and paprika, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of your spoon.
6. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom.
7. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potato layer, then pour half of the creamy sauce evenly on top.
8. Nestle the seared pork chops into the dish, spacing them evenly across the potato base.
9. Layer the remaining potato slices over the chops, then add the rest of the cheddar cheese and pour the last of the sauce over everything.
10. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld.
11. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. The exposed cheese will crisp up beautifully.
12. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief pause helps the sauce settle and makes slicing neater.
13. Garnish with fresh parsley, serve hot alongside your favorite veggies or a crisp side salad, and enjoy every mouthwatering, layered bite.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SMOTHERED PORK CHOP SCALLOPED POTATO CASSEROLE
When it comes to serving, you’ll want to honor all the creamy, savory goodness you’ve just created—and a few clever touches can take the experience from “delicious” to “unforgettable.” Whether you’re plating individual portions or setting up a family-style spread, these suggestions will showcase your casserole at its best.
- Serve with a crisp green salad. Toss peppery arugula or mixed greens with a light lemon vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream, balancing the meal.
- Add a side of roasted seasonal vegetables. Think tender asparagus spears or honey-glazed carrots. Roast them alongside the casserole in the last 15 minutes for a colorful, nutrient-packed accompaniment.
- Pair with crusty bread. Let guests mop up any leftover sauce with slices of artisan bread or warm dinner rolls. The extra starch is always a hit for soaking up that cheesy, savory liquid.
- Offer a bright condiment bar. Small bowls of chopped scallions, extra fresh thyme, or a dollop of tangy sour cream let everyone customize their slice of casserole for extra flavor layers.
HOW TO STORE SMOTHERED PORK CHOP SCALLOPED POTATO CASSEROLE
This casserole is just as delightful the next day, if not more so, thanks to those flavors having time to mingle. Proper storage ensures you preserve that creamy texture and meaty goodness without sacrificing taste. Here are your best options for keeping leftovers fresh and flavorful.
- Refrigeration: Once the casserole has cooled to room temperature, tightly cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through to maintain the best texture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the cooled, covered casserole pan with a layer of aluminum foil and another of plastic wrap, or portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven to ensure even warming.
- Reheating in Portions: If you prefer quicker heat-ups, scoop individual servings into a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power, checking every minute to avoid overcooking and preserve moisture.
- Reviving Crispness: After microwaving, you can place a single portion under the broiler for 1–2 minutes to re-crisp the cheese topping. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn, and enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch all over again.
CONCLUSION
This Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is the ultimate marriage of comforting flavors and hearty family fare. From the first sizzle of the pork chops hitting the skillet to the moment you carve out that cheesy, scalloped slice, each step builds layers of savory goodness that everyone will love. With an intermediate difficulty level and around an hour of cooking time, it’s manageable for home cooks looking to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. The preparation details—20 minutes for prep, 1 hour of baking, and a brief 10-minute rest—mean you can easily slot this into a busy evening, knowing you’ll emerge with a dish that feels special and satisfying. And at about 550 calories per serving, you get that rich, comforting experience without going completely overboard.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later: it’s your go-to guide whenever you need that sure-fire crowd-pleaser on the dinner table. Below you’ll find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions about variations, substitutions, and troubleshooting. If you give this recipe a try—or if you have any questions, comments, or simply want to share how it turned out—please leave your feedback. Your experiences and tips help everyone in our cooking community, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support or want to swap stories about how your family devoured every last bite. Happy cooking!
Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Description
This rich casserole layers tender pork chops, creamy scalloped potatoes, and melty cheese, creating a warm meal that will bring everyone to the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops on both sides until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the chops and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion and minced garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
-
Stir in the cornstarch, making sure it coats the onions and garlic evenly. Then add the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and paprika. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken slightly.
-
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the potato slices evenly in the dish.
-
Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over the potatoes and pour half of the sauce over the cheese.
-
Arrange the seared pork chops on top of the potato layer.
-
Repeat another layer with the remaining potato slices, cheddar cheese, and sauce.
-
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
-
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
-
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley.
-
Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite vegetables or a side salad.
Note
- For best results, use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin potato slices.
- The pork chops can be replaced with boneless ones if desired.
- Gruyere cheese can be used instead of cheddar for a nutty flavor.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste, adding cayenne or crushed red pepper for extra heat.
