If you’re in search of a hearty, comforting meal that brings gourmet flavor to the table with ease, this recipe is for you! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes combine tender, juicy pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes for a perfect balance of rich flavors and textures. The garlic and Parmesan add a wonderful depth to the pork chops, while the scalloped potatoes come alive with cheddar and cream. This is the ultimate comfort dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a warm, satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 pork chops
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated 🧀
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿
• Salt & pepper to taste 🧂

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4 cups potatoes, thinly sliced 🥔
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
• 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
• Salt & pepper to taste 🧂

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork Chops

1. Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown nicely when cooked.
2. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and thyme on both sides.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this point, as they will finish cooking in the oven.
4. Once seared, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the heavy cream and bring to a low simmer. Then, whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Layer the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. Pour the cream and Parmesan mixture over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 4: Layer and Add Cheddar Cheese

1. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes, reserving a small portion to add on top of the pork chops.
2. Arrange the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with foil to retain moisture, and bake for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender, the cheese is melted, and the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm with a side of green vegetables or a salad.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 34 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fat: 42 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 720 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I substitute the pork chops with chicken?

• Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work wonderfully as a substitute for pork chops. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• Absolutely. You can prepare and assemble the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from a cold dish.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

• While Parmesan and cheddar provide a great flavor combination, you can experiment with gruyere, mozzarella, or gouda for a unique twist.

4. How do I make this dairy-free?

• Swap out heavy cream for a plant-based cream (like coconut cream) and use dairy-free cheese options.

Tips for Making the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes

1. Use a Mandoline for Even Potato Slices: Thin, even slices help the potatoes cook at the same rate, ensuring a tender, creamy texture.
2. Avoid Overcrowding the Skillet: When searing the pork chops, give each chop enough room to brown properly. Overcrowding can cause steaming rather than searing.
3. Season Generously: Potatoes can absorb a lot of flavor, so taste and adjust the seasoning before baking to ensure the dish is flavorful.
4. Rest After Baking: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after baking allows the cream to thicken slightly, creating a creamy, cohesive texture in each bite.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, although the texture of the potatoes may soften. Wrap portions tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. For smaller portions, use the microwave, though the oven preserves the texture better.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe delivers an irresistible combination of savory flavors and comforting textures that’s sure to please. The rich, creamy potatoes complement the juicy pork chops perfectly, and the garlic-Parmesan mixture adds an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this dish is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and adaptable to suit your tastes. Enjoy this delicious, comforting meal that’s bound to become a family favorite!