This Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that combines juicy pork chops with creamy potatoes and gooey cheese. It’s like a big hug on a plate!
I love how easy this casserole is to whip up. Just layer everything, pop it in the oven, and relax while it cooks. The smell alone will have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops. Bone-in adds flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go with boneless. For a twist, try using chicken thighs instead, as they cook similarly and taste great!
Potatoes: Russets or Yukon Golds work well in this recipe. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-packaged frozen hash browns or a mix for a quicker prep. They will provide a different texture but still taste delicious.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a nice flavor, and mozzarella adds stretch. Feel free to swap cheddar for pepper jack if you want a little heat. For a richer flavor, consider using Gruyère or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
Cream and Milk: Heavy cream gives a luxurious texture, but you can use a lighter option, like whole milk or a non-dairy substitute like almond milk. Just keep in mind the sauce may be a bit thinner.
How Do I Make Sure the Potatoes Cook Perfectly?
The trick lie in cutting your potatoes thin and layering them correctly. Here’s how:
- Slice potatoes no thicker than 1/4 inch for even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help.
- Layer the potatoes well and don’t skimp on the cream mixture; it helps soften them as they bake.
- Cover the dish for the first part of baking to steam the potatoes, then uncover to get that beautiful golden cheese crust.
Following these tips will ensure your potatoes turn out deliciously creamy and perfectly tender every time!
Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra sprigs for garnish if desired)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of cooking time. That totals around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to table! The result will be a hearty, cheesy meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Dish:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season and Sear the Pork Chops:
Generously season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme. In a large skillet, add olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops on both sides until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside. This step adds flavor and locks in the juices!
3. Mix the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes, minced garlic, onion powder, the remaining thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss everything together to coat the potatoes evenly.
4. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and milk. This will make your casserole extra creamy and delicious!
5. Layer It Up:
Start layering in the prepared casserole dish. Place half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Pour half of the cream mixture over these potatoes, then sprinkle half the cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Add Pork Chops:
Pour any juices from the seared pork chops over the first potato layer. Then, place the pork chops on top of this layer for that lovely, meaty kick.
7. Finish Layering:
Top the pork chops with the remaining sliced potatoes, then pour the rest of the cream mixture over everything. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it) evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Add a few small pats of butter on top to help with browning. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything settle. You can garnish with fresh thyme or herbs if you like for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish!
This hearty casserole features juicy pork chops nestled atop creamy, cheesy potatoes, creating a delightful meal that feels like a warm hug. Perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends. Enjoy your cozy dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While pork chops are delicious, you can easily substitute them with chicken thighs or even beef for a different flavor profile. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a bit of extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge when you pop it in the oven.
What Should I Do with Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or gently in the oven until warmed through. It’s great for a quick lunch or dinner!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely and layer them with the potatoes so they cook through.