This Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole is a warm, hearty dish perfect for any meal. The tender pork chops melt in your mouth, layered with creamy potatoes and topped with cheese!
My favorite part? It’s all made in one dish, so clean-up is a breeze! Plus, the leftover flavor just gets better, making it a hit for lunch the next day. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for something leaner, boneless chops or chicken breasts could work too, though cooking times may vary.
Potatoes: Using medium potatoes adds heartiness. I love Yukon Gold for their buttery flavor, but you could use Russets or red potatoes depending on what you have on hand.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings richness. If you want a different twist, try Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for variety. Goat cheese or feta can also add a unique flavor.
Sour Cream: This gives creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthy alternative if you’re looking to cut down on fat.
Herbs and Seasoning: Dried thyme adds warmth, but feel free to mix it up! Rosemary or oregano could also work well, or even fresh herbs if you have them.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Tender Potatoes?
Getting tender potatoes in your casserole is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Thinly slice your potatoes; this helps them cook faster and evenly.
- Soaking them in cold water removes excess starch and prevents them from becoming gummy during baking.
- Layering the potatoes at the bottom helps them absorb flavors from the pork chops and sauce.
- Covering the dish with foil initially steams the potatoes, making them soft. Uncovering later allows the cheese to brown nicely.
Letting it rest before serving helps everything settle, making for a more sliceable casserole. Enjoy your meal!
Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to cook. You’ll have a total time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, grease a medium-sized casserole dish with a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Potatoes:
Now, slice your potatoes thinly to ensure they cook evenly. To remove excess starch and help them crisp up nicely, soak the potato slices in cold water for 5-10 minutes. Drain and pat them dry before using.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat your olive oil or butter over medium heat. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and half of the thyme (or Italian seasoning). Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, just until they are nicely browned. Once seared, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for a few minutes until they are soft and fragrant—the aroma will be wonderful!
5. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk and sour cream. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic, then season with salt, pepper, and the remaining thyme to taste. This mixture is going to be creamy and delicious!
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Start by layering the bottom of the greased casserole dish with the potato slices. Next, place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes. Finally, pour the creamy milk and sour cream mixture evenly over everything. It’s starting to look great!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 35 minutes. This helps the potatoes cook through and soak up all those yummy flavors!
8. Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
After 35 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Pop it back in the oven, uncovered, for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the potatoes are tender. Your kitchen will smell phenomenal!
9. Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish it with fresh parsley for a lovely touch. Now, dig in and enjoy your comforting, cheesy Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole!
This dish is not just satisfying, but also perfect for sharing with family or friends. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used instead of bone-in ones. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute for sour cream. It will give you the same creaminess with added protein!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Just cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or you can use the microwave if you’re short on time.
