This Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole is a warm, cozy dish that’s hard to resist! Tender pork chops layer with creamy potatoes and a hint of seasoning for great flavor.
Honestly, this meal is like a hug in a dish. I love how it’s all baked together—easy peasy! Just pop it in the oven and enjoy the yummy smells filling your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are great for tenderness, but you can use bone-in for more flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey cutlets instead!
Potatoes: I love using Yukon Gold for their creaminess, but Russets will work too. If you want something different, sweet potatoes add a nice twist in flavor and nutrition!
Heavy Cream: This gives the casserole a rich base. If you’re cutting calories, you can substitute half-and-half or milk. Cashew cream is a good dairy-free option!
Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite for its sharpness, but mozzarella will melt beautifully. You can skip it for a lighter dish or use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Can You Get Perfectly Searing on Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops gives a nice golden-brown crust and locks in flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough! Preheat it before adding any oil.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Flip only once! This allows for a nice crust to form without steaming the meat.
A little patience goes a long way in achieving that juicy, flavorful bite!
Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3 to 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), optional
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 25-30 minutes for baking. So, in just around 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks perfectly once it goes in!
2. Season the Pork Chops
Generously season the pork chops with salt and black pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy—seasoning adds a lot of flavor!
3. Sear the Pork Chops
In an oven-safe skillet (a cast iron skillet is perfect), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Potatoes
In the same skillet, add the potato chunks. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to let them brown a little.
5. Add Garlic and Cream
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. If you’re using Dijon mustard and thyme, add those too! Season the mixture with a little more salt and pepper.
6. Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This helps the flavors come together beautifully!
7. Nestle the Pork Chops
Now, place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes and cream mixture in the skillet. If you’d like extra creaminess, sprinkle shredded cheese on top!
8. Bake the Casserole
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Finishing Touches
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting time helps everything settle.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole!
This dish is sure to be a hit—they won’t be able to resist coming back for seconds!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just ensure they are cooked to the same internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream for that rich texture!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to refresh it!