Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole
This Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole uses pork, potatoes, garlic, and cream for a cozy, oven-baked comfort food classic.
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
- Cutting board
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
For the pork chops:
- 6 boneless pork chops
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the potatoes and sauce:
- 4 medium potatoes thinly sliced
- 1 small onion thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish so nothing sticks.
Step 2: Season and sear the pork chops
- Pat the pork chops dry and season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chop for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step builds flavor you don’t want to skip. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the creamy sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking as you go to keep it smooth. Let it thicken slightly, then season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Step 4: Layer the casserole
- Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in your baking dish. Add a layer of onions, then pour some sauce over the top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce, making sure everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the pork chops
- Place the seared pork chops on top. Spoon a bit of sauce over each one so they stay moist while baking.
Step 6: Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, add cheese if using, and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Step 7: Rest and serve
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- Slice potatoes thin and evenly so they cook properly
- Use a mandoline if you want perfectly even slices
- Don’t rush the sauce—let it thicken gently
- Always rest the dish before serving
- Season each layer lightly for better flavor