This Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole is a cozy dish that’s perfect for family dinners! It features tender pork chops layered with creamy potatoes and some cheesy goodness.
I love how everything cooks together, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, the flavors blend so well that you won’t want to stop eating! Give it a try, and you might just want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using boneless pork chops for easier slicing and serving. If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken breasts work well too, just adjust the cooking time as chicken cooks faster.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are perfect for this casserole, but you can also use red potatoes or sweet potatoes for a twist. Just remember, sweet potatoes will add a different flavor and sweetness.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a great flavor, but feel free to mix it up with a blend of Mexican cheese, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheese like Gruyère for a gourmet touch!
Sour Cream: If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt or sour cream. Silken tofu blended until smooth can also work as a creamy alternative.
How Can I Get Perfectly Sautéed Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops is an important step. It locks in juices and gives great flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until hot. This helps in getting that nice crust.
- Add olive oil or butter; it should shimmer but not smoke.
- Place the pork chops in the pan and let them sear without moving them for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
- Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked; they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
This technique ensures your pork chops are deliciously browned and tender in the casserole!
Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 1 hour of baking time, including 45 minutes covered and 15-20 minutes uncovered. You’ll spend a bit of time preparing the ingredients and layering everything together, but the oven does most of the work for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that warms up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take your boneless pork chops and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme or parsley. This step adds flavor to the meat.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear them for about 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the milk and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and blended well.
5. Layer the Potatoes and Onions:
In the prepared baking dish, start by laying down a layer of the thinly sliced potatoes. On top of that, add the thinly sliced onions, seasoning them lightly with salt and black pepper for extra flavor.
6. Add the Creamy Mixture:
Pour about half of the milk and sour cream mixture evenly over the potatoes and onions. This will help keep everything moist during baking.
7. Add the Sear-Pork Chops:
Place the seared pork chops directly on top of the potatoes and onions in the dish.
8. Layer More Potatoes:
Next, add the remaining sliced potatoes on top of the pork chops.
9. Finish with the Cream Mixture:
Pour the rest of the milk and sour cream mixture over the top layer of potatoes to make sure they bake up creamy.
10. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of everything. This creates a delicious cheesy crust!
11. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. The foil helps cook the casserole evenly and prevents excessive browning.
12. Uncover and Finish Baking:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
13. Let It Rest:
Once you remove the casserole from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps settle the flavors. Garnish with a bit of fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your hearty Pork Chops and Potatoes Casserole; it’s perfect as a comforting meal for the family!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops! Just be aware that they may require a bit more time to cook thoroughly. Make sure to adjust your baking time accordingly to ensure they’re fully cooked but still tender.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will add a nice tangy flavor. Use the same amount as the sour cream in the recipe, and it will keep the casserole creamy and delicious.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! You can add veggies like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces so they’ll cook effectively alongside the potatoes and pork chops.