These Easy Smothered Pork Chops are juicy and covered in a creamy sauce that’s hard to resist. Pair them with cheesy scalloped potatoes that are baked to perfection!
It’s a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love how the cheesy potatoes soak up all the flavors. Perfect for when you want something delicious without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I love using bone-in pork chops for extra flavor and moisture. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time—they may cook faster.
Onions: Sweet onions are great for caramelizing and make the sauce extra delicious. If you prefer a milder taste, go for yellow onions. In a pinch, shallots can be a nice alternative!
Heavy Cream: I usually opt for heavy cream as it gives a rich texture to the sauce. But if you’re looking for a lighter option, whole milk or even half-and-half will do the trick. Just remember, the sauce may not be as thick.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are best for scalloped potatoes, but Yukon Gold is also a great choice, offering a creamy texture. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced potatoes can save you some prep.
Cheese: I use sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or gouda if you want a different twist. Vegan cheese can also work for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions is all about low and slow cooking. It may take some patience, but the sweet flavor is worth it! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat and add your sliced onions to the hot skillet with oil or butter.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until they turn translucent.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them golden brown and soft, almost jammy.
Remember, don’t rush this step! The slower they cook, the richer the flavor becomes, making your dish truly special.
Easy Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Smothered Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep time and around 1 hour for cooking. You’ll spend the first part preparing the pork chops and the cheesy potato dish at the same time. It’s a comforting meal that comes together quite nicely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Smothered Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with a paper towel, then season them on both sides with salt and pepper to your taste. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. After browning, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
2. Caramelizing the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the butter and thinly sliced onions. Cook the onions over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and caramelized. This step adds sweetness and depth to your gravy.
3. Making the Gravy:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, mixing well to combine, and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add thyme and let it come to a simmer.
4. Simmering the Pork Chops:
Return the pork chops back into the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over them, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the chops to cook through until they’re tender. Finally, stir in the heavy cream or milk, cooking uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Preparing the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:
While the pork chops are simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
6. Making the Cheese Sauce:
Gradually add in the milk, whisking until smooth. Continue cooking and stirring frequently until the sauce thickens—about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, along with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using, until the cheese is melted.
7. Layering the Potatoes:
In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes and pour half of your cheese sauce over them. Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes and sauce. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
8. Baking the Scalloped Potatoes:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbly. Let the scalloped potatoes rest for about 5 minutes before serving, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives.
9. Serving Up:
Serve the smothered pork chops hot, generously drizzling with onion gravy over the top, alongside a hearty portion of cheesy scalloped potatoes. Enjoy your comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Smothered Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for doneness.
Can I Make the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the scalloped potatoes a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, and you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of milk to the scalloped potatoes if they seem dry.
Can I Use Different Cheeses for the Scalloped Potatoes?
Definitely! While sharp cheddar is great, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a blend. Just keep in mind that different cheeses have varied melting properties and flavors, so choose one that you enjoy!
