Tender pork chops layered over creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes—this casserole is the very definition of comfort food. A savory onion-garlic cream sauce ties it all together, creating a hearty dish that’s rich, filling, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines two comfort food classics: juicy pork chops + cheesy scalloped potatoes.
- Easy to prepare in one casserole dish.
- Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or holiday meals.
- Tastes even better the next day—hello, amazing leftovers!
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high and brown chops on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Sprinkle in flour, stirring to create a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and broth until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Layer the casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer half the potatoes. Pour half the sauce over top, then sprinkle with half the cheese. Repeat with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese. Sprinkle paprika on top.
- Add pork chops: Place browned pork chops over the potato mixture. Cover with foil.
- Bake for 1 hour, then uncover and bake 15–20 minutes more, until pork is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
- Rest & serve: Let sit 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hr 20 min
Total Time: 1 hr 40 min
Servings: 4
Calories: ~450 per serving
Tips for Success
- Best potatoes: Use starchy Russets or Yukon Golds for tender, creamy layers.
- Brown first: Don’t skip searing the pork chops—this locks in flavor and creates a golden crust.
- Even layering: Overlap potato slices slightly and spread sauce evenly for consistent results.
- Fresh cheese: Grate your own cheddar (or try Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan for variety).
Variations
- Vegetarian: Replace pork chops with roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant.
- Spicy: Add cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Herby: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives add extra depth.
- Cheese swap: Mix up your cheese blend for new flavor profiles.
Serving Ideas
This casserole is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette.
- Steamed veggies like green beans, asparagus, or carrots.
- Buttery garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for soaking up sauce.
Leftovers & Make-Ahead
This casserole is just as delicious (if not more!) the next day. Store covered in the fridge and reheat gently in a low oven. You can also assemble the casserole ahead of time, then bake right before serving—perfect for holidays or busy nights.
Final Thoughts
The Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole is everything you want in a comforting homemade meal: hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for special occasions. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or enjoy it as leftovers, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.