Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

When you’re in the mood for something hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, nothing hits the spot quite like Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. This classic comfort food dish is packed with savory goodness from the juicy pork chops to the creamy, cheesy potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or want to impress guests with your culinary skills, this recipe is a surefire hit.

In this article, we’ll dive into how to make this dish step-by-step, with tips, tricks, and nutritional benefits. Plus, you’ll learn why Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes deserves a spot on your regular dinner rotation. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love this Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe:

  • Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet flavor, this dish is incredibly simple to prepare.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Save time and effort by cooking the pork chops and potatoes together.
  • Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it a hit for all ages.
  • Customizable: You can switch up the cheeses, add herbs, or even spice things up for more variety.

With its ease of preparation and delicious outcome, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without too much effort.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

The secret to the rich flavor of this dish is in the simple but impactful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pork Chops:

  • 4 pork chops: Bone-in or boneless, both work well.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that signature salty, cheesy goodness.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil: To brown the chops to perfection.
  • 1 tsp dried thyme: Enhances the savory taste.
  • Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

  • 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar is a great choice, but you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: Provides the creamy texture.
  • Salt & pepper, to taste: A little seasoning goes a long way.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a meal that tastes like it came straight from a cozy restaurant.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before you begin preparing the pork chops and potatoes, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure even cooking throughout the dish.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

Season your pork chops by rubbing them with minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. This creates a rich, flavorful crust on the outside of the meat.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork chops for 4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Don’t cook them through just yet; they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Arrange the Potatoes

Layer the thinly sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. Try to make sure the slices are even for uniform cooking.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a bowl, mix 1 cup of heavy cream with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this cheesy mixture over the potatoes, ensuring they are fully coated in creamy goodness.

Step 6: Bake the Dish

Place the browned pork chops on top of the potatoes in the baking dish. Bake the dish for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once the dish is baked to perfection, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your pork chops extra juicy.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pork Chops and Potatoes

  • Thin Slices Matter: When slicing your potatoes, make them as thin as possible. Thinner slices cook faster and evenly absorb the cheesy sauce.
  • Watch the Cooking Time: Check the pork chops’ internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
  • Customize the Cheeses: While cheddar works great, you can substitute it with mozzarella for extra creaminess or Gruyère for a more robust flavor.
  • Make It Ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it, then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of macronutrients and essential vitamins. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition content for one serving (one pork chop and a portion of cheesy potatoes):

Nutrition Details (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 520
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 800 IU
  • Calcium: 200mg
  • Iron: 2.5mg

Health Benefits:

  1. Lean Protein: Pork is a great source of lean protein, which helps in muscle repair and maintenance.
  2. Rich in Vitamins: The potatoes provide a good source of Vitamin C, which is essential for your immune system, and Vitamin B6, important for brain health.
  3. Calcium Boost: The cheese in this dish adds to your daily calcium intake, which is crucial for bone strength.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, you can substitute the pork chops with boneless pork loin or pork tenderloin. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as thinner cuts will cook faster.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To make this dish a bit healthier, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. Using low-fat cheese will also reduce the calorie count, though it may result in a slightly less creamy texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Simply store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What side dishes go well with this meal?

This dish pairs perfectly with a green vegetable like steamed broccoli, green beans, or a light salad to balance out the richness.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal. With tender pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. The best part? It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and packed with flavor! Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this recipe will leave everyone satisfied.

So, what are you waiting for? Try this recipe today, and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

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Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe combines tender, juicy pork chops with creamy, cheesy potatoes for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pork chops
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish bakes evenly and everything is cooked to perfection.
  2. Season the Pork Chops: Rub the pork chops with minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. These simple seasonings pack a punch and enhance the natural flavor of the meat.
  3. Cook the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chops for about 4 minutes per side. This step seals in the juices and gives the meat a nice, golden crust.
  4. Prepare the Potatoes: Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in a baking dish. You’ll want them evenly layered, as this helps them cook consistently and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
  5. Make the Cheesy Sauce: In a bowl, combine the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well, then pour this cheesy mixture over the sliced potatoes, making sure they’re evenly coated. This creamy goodness will seep into the potatoes, creating a rich, indulgent side dish.
  6. Bake Everything Together: Place the browned pork chops on top of the potatoes in the baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Letting the pork chops bake on top of the potatoes allows the flavors to meld together.
  7. Serve and Enjoy!: Once baked, let the dish rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors set, and the pork chops will be extra juicy. Then, dig in and enjoy this delicious meal!

Notes

  • Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking or undercooking your pork chops, use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached 145°F (63°C) internally.
  • Thinner Potatoes, Faster Cooking: Slice your potatoes as thin as possible to ensure they cook evenly within the time frame.
  • Custom Cheesy Options: Feel free to mix up the cheese! Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Gruyère if you prefer a different flavor profile.
  • Author: Elina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pork chop with potatoes
  • Calories: 520kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: Pork chops with cheesy potatoes, Baked pork chops and potatoes, Parmesan pork chops recipe, Comfort food pork recipes

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