This Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole is a warm hug for your taste buds! It’s packed with tender pork chops, creamy potatoes, and lots of gooey cheese. Yum!
I love how easy it is to make—just layer it up and let the oven do the magic. Plus, the cheesy goodness makes it a hit for dinner with family! It might even become a favorite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork loin chops or even chicken thighs work well too.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are my favorite for this dish because they become nice and creamy. Yukon Golds are also an excellent choice. If you’re low on potatoes, cauliflower can be a great substitute for a lighter version.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a wonderful richness and gooeyness. For a different twist, try Monterey Jack or Gouda. If you want a sharper flavor, go for aged cheddar.
Onions: Use yellow onions for sweetness. For a milder flavor, you can go with sweet onions or even omit them if you prefer.
How Do You Thicken the Cheese Sauce Properly?
The cheese sauce is crucial for the casserole’s creaminess. Start by making a roux—mix flour with melted butter until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens for about 5 minutes; this builds a silky texture.
- Cook the roux for a minute before adding milk to remove the raw flour taste.
- Always whisk continuously and don’t rush; this prevents clumping and ensures a smooth finish.
- Adding the cheese off the heat helps it melt evenly without clumping.
Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4-6 bone-in pork chops, seasoned
- 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 1 hour of cooking time. You’ll spend a little time prepping the pork chops and assembling the layers, but then you can relax while it bakes. Total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including a short cooling period before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter—this will help prevent sticking.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This gives them great flavor!
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil or butter. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the chops and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and is smooth (about 5 minutes). Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Layer the Casserole:
In the greased casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes and onions evenly. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer. Place the seared pork chops on top, then layer the remaining sliced potatoes and onions over the chops. Pour the rest of the cheese sauce on top, and finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over everything.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. The casserole is ready when the potatoes are tender, the pork chops are cooked through (aim for an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C), and the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve:
After removing from the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help everything set a little. If you like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole! It’s perfect for dinner any night of the week!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer! Just keep in mind they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid drying them out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using leaner cuts of meat like chicken breast, and substitute half of the potatoes with cauliflower or another vegetable like broccoli. You can also use low-fat cheese and milk for a lighter version.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at a low temperature or use the microwave. Stir in a splash of milk if it seems dry when reheating.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if taken straight from the fridge.
