There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a warm, hearty dinner that feels like a hug on a plate. That’s exactly what you get with a Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole. This dish takes tender, juicy pork chops, nestles them into layers of creamy scalloped potatoes, and smothers everything in a rich, cheesy sauce before baking it to golden perfection. The result? A casserole that’s comforting, filling, and guaranteed to impress both family and guests.
Unlike quick weeknight meals, this casserole is about slowing down and enjoying the best flavors of home cooking. The smothered pork chops bring savory depth, while the scalloped potatoes soak up every bit of creamy goodness, making each bite better than the last. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family tradition, passed down and requested time after time.
Whether you’re hosting a Sunday dinner, looking for a cozy holiday side dish, or simply craving comfort food that delivers, this Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole deserves a spot on your table.
Why You’ll Love This Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
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One-pan wonder: The pork chops and potatoes bake together, saving time and cleanup.
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Rich and creamy flavor: Layers of cheese, cream, and seasonings create a luscious sauce.
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Family-approved: Kids and adults alike love the hearty, home-style flavors.
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Perfect make-ahead meal: You can prep it in advance and bake when ready.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this mouthwatering Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole, gather the following:
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4–6 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
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6 medium russet potatoes (thinly sliced, about 1/8 inch)
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1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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2 cups heavy cream or whole milk (for creaminess)
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1 can cream of mushroom soup (optional but adds depth)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons flour (to thicken the sauce)
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and black pepper (to taste)
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Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
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Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
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Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
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In a skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
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Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. (They don’t need to cook through at this stage.)
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Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
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In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
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Sprinkle in flour and stir to create a roux.
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Slowly whisk in chicken broth and cream, stirring until smooth.
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Add cream of mushroom soup if using.
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Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
3. Assemble the Casserole
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
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Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer.
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Pour half the creamy sauce over the potatoes.
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Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
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Nestle the seared pork chops on top of the layered potatoes.
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Sprinkle the remaining cheese over everything.
4. Bake to Perfection
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
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Remove the foil and bake another 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
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Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
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Slice potatoes evenly: Use a mandoline for thin, uniform slices that cook evenly.
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Don’t skip searing: Browning the pork chops first locks in flavor.
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Rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit prevents the sauce from being too runny.
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Use sharp cheese: A bold cheddar adds a rich depth of flavor.
Variations of Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
1. Cheesy Bacon Twist
Add cooked, crumbled bacon between the potato layers for a smoky touch.
2. Veggie-Packed Version
Mix in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms with the potatoes.
3. Spicy Kick
Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for a little heat.
4. Lighter Option
Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk and use reduced-fat cheese.
What to Serve With Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Since this casserole is hearty on its own, simple sides work best:
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Steamed green beans with garlic butter
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A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
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Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus
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Homemade dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or use the microwave for quick single servings.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
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Calories: 550
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Protein: 36g
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Fat: 30g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 850mg
(Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)
FAQs About Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 10–15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops?
Absolutely. Boneless chops work just as well, but keep an eye on them as they may cook faster than bone-in chops.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.
Q: How do I prevent the casserole from being too runny?
Make sure to thicken the sauce properly with flour and allow the casserole to rest before cutting.
Why This Dish Stands Out
The magic of Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole lies in its combination of textures and flavors: tender meat, creamy potatoes, cheesy layers, and a savory sauce that ties everything together. It feels like home on a plate, the kind of meal that gathers the family around the table and fills the house with irresistible aromas.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and easy to prepare, look no further than Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole. This dish brings together the best of both worlds—juicy smothered pork chops and creamy scalloped potatoes—into one irresistible casserole.
Serve it for a weeknight dinner, holiday feast, or whenever you crave something cozy and satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s quickly becoming a classic in many households.
