Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe

You’re going to love this Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe because it combines two hearty comfort food favorites into one delicious, easy-to-make dish. Imagine tender pork chops smothered in a creamy, cheesy potato casserole — it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend family gathering, this recipe delivers satisfying flavors with little fuss.

What makes this Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe stand out is how everything bakes together, letting the pork chops soak up that rich, cheesy sauce while the potatoes get tender and perfectly golden on top. I like to think of it as the ultimate one-dish comfort meal that’s generous without being complicated, so even if you’re new to casseroles, I’ll share tips so you nail it every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients here work in harmony to create layers of flavor and texture — from juicy pork chops to creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. When shopping, look for fresh meat and firm potatoes, as that really makes a difference in the final dish.

• Boneless pork chops: Choose chops about 1 inch thick for even cooking and tenderness.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning both pork and potatoes to bring out their natural flavors.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground if possible, it adds a mild heat and depth.
• Garlic powder: A simple way to add savory undertones without overpowering.
• Onion powder: Pairs beautifully with the garlic to layer flavors.
• Olive oil: For searing the pork chops and adding richness.
• Thinly sliced potatoes: Yukon gold or russet are my go-tos for creamy texture.
• Small onion, thinly sliced: The onion adds mild sweetness and texture in the casserole.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang and melts beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce perfectly without lumps.
• Milk: Whole milk or 2% works best for that delicious creamy sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth to the sauce; low-sodium if you want more control over salt.
• Dried thyme: A subtle earthy herb that complements pork wonderfully.
• Paprika: Adds color and a faint smoky note.
• Butter: For richness in the sauce and layering flavors.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A fresh garnish that brightens the whole dish.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on what’s in season or what I’m craving — and you can do the same! Feel free to swap ingredients or add a little extra flair to suit your taste.

• Spicy kick: I sometimes toss in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle heat that wakes up the flavors.
• Cheese swap: Using a combination of cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack gives a different melt and flavor profile.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk and cheese with a plant-based alternative to keep it creamy.
• Herb your way: Fresh rosemary or sage works beautifully in place of thyme for a more woodsy note.
• Vegetable boost: Adding sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers between the layers adds extra texture and nutrition.

How to Make Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Pork Chops

Start by seasoning your pork chops generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. I like to rub the spices in really well—that way each bite is flavorful. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the pork chops for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a beautiful crust. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked through yet because they’ll finish in the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Scalloped Potato Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to create a roux, which is the base for a silky smooth sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to avoid lumps. Add the dried thyme and paprika, then let it simmer until the sauce thickens—about 5 minutes. Stir in half the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. This sauce is the magic that ties everything together.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Grab your casserole dish and start with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes and onions. Pour a bit of the cheese sauce over the layer. Next, place the seared pork chops evenly on top, then cover them with the remaining potatoes and onions. Pour the rest of your cheese sauce over everything and sprinkle with the second half of shredded cheddar cheese. This layering ensures every bite has that luscious cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Tender

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes uncovered until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the pork chops perfectly cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

How to Serve Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Nothing beats a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top right before serving — it brightens the rich casserole with a fresh, herbal note. Sometimes I add a little cracked black pepper or even a light drizzle of olive oil for shine and aroma. These simple touches make it feel extra special, especially when serving guests.

Side Dishes

I usually keep sides simple since this casserole is hearty on its own, but a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette is my go-to to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus also add a perfect pop of color and freshness to the plate. For a cozy dinner, a side of dinner rolls or crusty bread rounds things out nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners or special occasions, I’ve served this casserole directly in mini ramekins to make individual portions that look super inviting. Another trick is layering it in a clear glass casserole dish to show off the beautiful layers of pork, potatoes, and cheese sauce — it’s almost too pretty to dig into! Warmed plates and garnishing with a sprig of thyme make it feel like restaurant-quality comfort food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe, I usually pack leftovers into airtight containers and keep them in the fridge. They last beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight. Just make sure to cool the casserole completely before storing to avoid condensation inside the container.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freezing works great with this casserole. I recommend assembling everything but not baking it yet—wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap before popping into the freezer. Then, when you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This helps keep the potatoes from getting mushy and the pork tender.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover leftovers loosely with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps maintain the creamy texture of the sauce and keeps the pork moist. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the potatoes a bit watery, so I reserve that for quick lunches.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a cozy, soul-satisfying meal that feels like home. I find it perfect for those days when you want dinner to be hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I’m excited for you to try it—you’ll quickly see how easy it is to impress everyone at the table with this crowd-pleaser!

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