Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion? Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the ultimate one-pan dinner that brings together juicy, garlic-flavored pork chops and creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. This combination creates a satisfying meal that will impress family and guests alike. Juicy pork chops coated in a savory garlic-Parmesan crust pair perfectly with tender, thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, cheesy sauce. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!

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What are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are pan-seared or baked pork chops seasoned with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, giving them a crispy, flavorful crust. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce made with cheese, milk, and seasonings until golden and bubbly. Combining these two dishes creates a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal. The pork chops remain tender and juicy, while the cheesy potatoes add a rich and creamy element to the plate.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious, comforting dish:

For the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick): Bone-in adds flavor, but boneless works well too.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, salty flavor and helps create a crust.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): The base flavor of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds flavor and a touch of color.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: For a bit of herby flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For extra garlic flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil: For pan-searing the pork chops.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced): Yukon gold potatoes can also work for a creamier texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: For a rich and creamy sauce.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a bold, cheesy flavor.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For extra cheesiness and flavor.
• 1 small onion (thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and flavor to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): To complement the garlic flavor in the pork chops.
• 1 tablespoon butter: For greasing the baking dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the potatoes.
• 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried): Adds a nice herby flavor to the potatoes.
• Fresh chives or parsley (for garnish): For a fresh, colorful finish.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Bacon bits: Sprinkle bacon on top of the scalloped potatoes for added crunch and flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Grated Gruyère: Mix in some Gruyère cheese for a richer, more decadent cheese sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some ways to customize the recipe to your liking:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap the cheddar for Gouda, mozzarella, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives to make the recipe dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check your cheese labels to make sure they don’t contain additives with gluten.
• Herb Substitutes: Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano to change up the flavor of the scalloped potatoes.
• Pork Alternatives: You can use chicken breasts or thighs instead of pork chops if you prefer.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the process of making Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes step by step.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife (about ⅛ inch thick). Set aside.

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream (or half-and-half) over medium-low heat. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the cream is warmed through. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and thinly sliced onions over the potatoes. Pour half of the cream mixture over the first layer. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Season the Pork Chops

While the potatoes are baking, season the pork chops. In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Rub the pork chops with olive oil, then press the Parmesan seasoning mixture onto both sides of each pork chop, ensuring the chops are well-coated.

Step 5: Sear the Pork Chops

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. You don’t need to cook them all the way through, as they will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 6: Add the Pork Chops to the Potatoes

Once the scalloped potatoes have baked for 40-45 minutes, remove them from the oven. Uncover the dish and arrange the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes.

Step 7: Finish Baking

Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are cooked through (145°F or 63°C internal temperature) and the potatoes are bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once the dish is done baking, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish the pork chops with freshly chopped parsley and the scalloped potatoes with fresh chives or parsley. Serve the pork chops alongside the cheesy scalloped potatoes for a complete and comforting meal.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare and Layer the Potatoes: Thinly slice the potatoes and layer them in a greased baking dish with cheese and a creamy garlic mixture.
2. Season the Pork Chops: Coat the pork chops with a flavorful garlic-Parmesan seasoning mixture.
3. Sear the Pork Chops: Quickly sear the pork chops in a skillet to develop a golden-brown crust.
4. Bake Everything Together: Add the pork chops on top of the scalloped potatoes and bake until everything is tender and golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Undercooked Potatoes: Slice the potatoes thinly (about ⅛ inch) so they cook evenly and become tender. If the potatoes are too thick, they may not cook through in the time allotted.
• Overcooking the Pork Chops: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops reach 145°F (63°C) and no more. Overcooked pork can become dry and tough.
• Not Searing the Pork: Searing the pork chops before baking adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Skipping the Rest Period: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese sauce to set slightly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This hearty dish is perfect on its own, but you can enhance it with a few thoughtful sides or garnishes to complete the meal.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted green beans, asparagus, or broccoli for a complete meal.
• With Garlic Bread: For a true comfort food feast, add some homemade garlic bread on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Serve Family Style: Present the entire dish straight from the oven to the table in a large casserole dish, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Individual Plates: For a more elegant presentation, plate each pork chop with a generous helping of scalloped potatoes and garnish with fresh herbs.
• Garnish with Extra Cheese: For extra indulgence, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan over the pork chops just before serving.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Use a Mandoline: A mandoline slicer is ideal for getting thin, even slices of potatoes.
• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking.
• Double the Cheese: For a richer dish, feel free to add more cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops?
A: Yes! Boneless pork chops work well in this recipe, though they may cook a little faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on the cooking time.

Q: Can I use different cheeses for the scalloped potatoes?
A: Absolutely. While cheddar and Parmesan are classic, you can use Gruyère, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: You can freeze the scalloped potatoes, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. It's best to add the pork chops fresh when reheating.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish. The garlic-Parmesan crust on the pork chops pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy scalloped potatoes, creating a deliciously decadent meal. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and get ready to enjoy every savory, cheesy bite!

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