This Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole is the definition of comfort food. Tender, juicy pork chops are baked over layers of creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes and covered in a rich onion-garlic sauce that ties everything together beautifully. Each bite is hearty, savory, and soul-satisfying — perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights at home.
The best part? This casserole tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and 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)
Directions
- Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season and brown pork chops: Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the pork chops on both sides. Set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, cook onions and garlic until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to form a roux.
- Add liquids: Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the casserole:
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased casserole dish.
- Pour half of the onion sauce over the top and sprinkle with half the cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
- Sprinkle paprika evenly over the top.
- Bake: Arrange the browned pork chops on top of the casserole. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Finish baking: Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the pork is fully cooked.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
A True Taste of Home
This casserole brings the best of Southern-style comfort food to your table. It combines simple, everyday ingredients — potatoes, onions, garlic, and pork — into something that feels truly special. The creamy sauce, melted cheese, and tender pork chops come together in a way that feels like a hug on a plate.
Whether it’s a Sunday supper or a weeknight dinner, this dish always delivers warmth and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy flavor: Every layer of potatoes is infused with the savory garlic-onion cream sauce.
- Simple to prepare: Everything bakes in one dish for easy cleanup.
- Versatile: Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or potlucks.
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready — or enjoy the leftovers the next day.
Pairing Ideas
While this casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, you can balance the richness with:
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Steamed green beans, asparagus, or glazed carrots
- Buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the sauce
Tips for Success
- Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes hold up best in scalloped dishes.
- Brown the pork chops first: This step seals in juices and adds a delicious golden crust.
- Layer evenly: Slightly overlap the potato slices for even cooking and beautiful presentation.
- Use freshly grated cheese: It melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Customization Ideas
- Vegetarian twist: Replace pork chops with layers of roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
- Add some heat: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Try new cheeses: Gruyère, mozzarella, or Parmesan blends add unique flavors.
- Fresh herbs: Add thyme, rosemary, or chives for a fragrant touch.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through — this helps keep the casserole creamy without drying it out.
Final Thoughts
The Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something special. With its tender pork, cheesy potatoes, and creamy sauce, it captures everything we love about homemade comfort food.
Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or enjoying it as leftovers the next day, it’s a dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and your table with smiles — a true taste of home.