Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever craved a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort? Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is the answer. This dish combines tender, juicy pork chops with creamy scalloped potatoes, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. The savory aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
This casserole is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. It promises a delightful experience with every bite, as the layers of thinly sliced potatoes meld with rich, flavorful sauce and succulent pork chops. Picture yourself serving this hearty meal, watching as your loved ones savor each mouthful, their faces lighting up with joy. You can’t help but feel that sense of satisfaction knowing you’ve prepared something truly special.
Key Ingredients For Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork Chops: Choose bone-in or boneless pork chops for juiciness; about 4-6 pieces will work well for this recipe.
- Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture when baked; slice them thinly for even cooking.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the casserole; opt for full-fat cream for the best flavor.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the flavor; finely chop it for even distribution.
- Garlic Powder: This enhances the overall taste; use about one teaspoon for a fragrant boost.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth complements the flavors without overpowering them; it’s best to use quality broth.
- Butter: This adds richness; use unsalted butter to better control the seasoning in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Second Step: Prepare Potatoes
Wash and peel your potatoes, then slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Set aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare other ingredients.
Third Step: Sear the Pork Chops
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Season pork chops with salt and pepper and sear them on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
Fourth Step: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Add garlic powder and adjust seasoning if needed.
Fifth Step: Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Place the seared pork chops on top, then pour half of the creamy sauce over them. Layer the remaining potatoes and finish with the rest of the sauce.
Sixth Step: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Slicing Potatoes Thinly: Ensure all potato slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking throughout.
- Resting Time: Letting the casserole sit for about five minutes after baking allows flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
- Add Cheese: For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.
Cooking Instructions
To create the delicious Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole, follow these easy steps. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season pork chops with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, sear the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Next, in the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth, mixing well. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. Pour half of the soup mixture over the potatoes. Add a layer of seared pork chops followed by the remaining potatoes and soup mixture.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 1 hour. After that, remove the foil to allow the top to brown for another 15-20 minutes. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
The Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is not only hearty but also adaptable to various sides. Consider these serving suggestions to enhance your meal:
- Green Beans: A simple sauté of green beans with garlic complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful combination.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad can provide a refreshing contrast to this creamy dish.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of your Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole, store them correctly to maintain freshness. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in freezer-safe bags. This method can preserve its flavor for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutritional Information
This satisfying dish offers a balance of protein and carbohydrates while providing essential nutrients from potatoes and other ingredients. Each serving typically contains around 400 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredient choices.
The dish is rich in flavor due to ingredients like pork chops and creamy sauces used throughout preparation. However, if you’re looking for lighter options, consider using lower-fat cream soups or leaner cuts of pork.
FAQs
What makes Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole unique?
The unique aspect of Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole lies in its comforting blend of flavors and textures. Combining succulent pork chops with creamy scalloped potatoes creates a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. The layers of tender potatoes absorb flavors from seasoned pork while providing a rich texture that’s hard to resist.
Can I make Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole ahead of time by assembling all ingredients without cooking it. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more before cooking.
What type of pork chop works best in this recipe?
When making Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole, bone-in or boneless pork chops work well depending on your preference. Bone-in chops tend to offer more flavor due to their fat content, while boneless options are easier to serve and eat. Choose cuts that are about one inch thick for optimal cooking results.
Can I customize ingredients in my casserole?
Yes! Customizing your Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is easy and encouraged based on personal tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers between layers or swap out cream soups for healthier alternatives like homemade versions using low-fat milk or vegetable broth instead.
Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole, where tender pork chops meet creamy, layered potatoes baked to perfection. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With rich aromas wafting through your kitchen, every bite promises warmth and satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick)
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Slice potatoes and soak in cold water.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Season pork chops with salt and pepper; sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden.
- Remove chops and sauté onions in the same skillet until translucent. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and garlic powder; stir well.
- Layer half the potatoes in the baking dish, add pork chops, then pour half the sauce over them. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking. Let casserole rest for five minutes before serving for enhanced flavors.
Leave a Comment