Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes – Page 2

Instructions for Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

1. Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the scalloped potatoes.

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Allow the cream to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, just enough to thicken slightly. Then, remove from heat.
In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), layer the thinly sliced potatoes and onions. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the potatoes and onions, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the potatoes.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 5 minutes before serving.

2. Cook the Pork Chops

While the scalloped potatoes are baking, you can cook the pork chops.

Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
Once the pork chops are seared, add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet and let it melt, basting the chops with the butter for extra flavor and moisture. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside to rest for a few minutes.

3. Assemble the Meal

Once both the pork chops and scalloped potatoes are ready, it’s time to plate them.

Serve each pork chop alongside a generous helping of the creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes.
For a finishing touch, garnish with some fresh parsley on top of the potatoes to add color and a touch of freshness.

Why You’ll Love Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

Perfect Balance of Flavors: The richness of the scalloped potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory, tender pork chops. The creamy cheese sauce and slightly crispy potatoes complement the juicy, well-seasoned pork, creating a balanced meal that’s full of flavor.
Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes. This meal is a perfect choice for cozy nights in or family gatherings, and it’s guaranteed to comfort and please everyone around the table.
One-Pan Meal: The pork chops can be cooked in a single skillet, making cleanup easier, while the scalloped potatoes bake in a single dish. The minimal use of cookware means less mess and more time enjoying your meal!
Great for Special Occasions or Weeknight Dinners: This dish is versatile enough for special occasions like holidays or birthdays but also simple enough for a comforting weeknight dinner. It’s a perfect meal for busy families or anyone looking to impress with minimal effort.

Tips for Making the Best Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

Use Bone-In Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless. They also help retain moisture during cooking, resulting in a more tender chop.
Slice the Potatoes Evenly: For even cooking, slice your potatoes uniformly, about 1/8-inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve perfect slices with minimal effort.
Add a Dash of Nutmeg to the Cream Sauce: For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce for the scalloped potatoes. It pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cream and cheese.
Rest the Pork Chops: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Simply assemble the dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations to Try

Add Vegetables: Mix in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli into the scalloped potato layers for added flavor and nutrition.
Use Different Cheeses: While sharp cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina for a different twist on the traditional flavor.
Herbed Pork Chops: If you love herbs, you can season the pork chops with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a more fragrant and earthy flavor.

Conclusion

Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes is a timeless dish that combines savory pork with creamy, cheesy potatoes, creating a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this recipe is easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a simple yet elegant way to bring family-friendly comfort food to the table. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to serve a delicious and memorable meal with Pork Chops and Scalloped Potatoes!

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