Creamy Baked Pork Chops with Potatoes
When it comes to satisfying comfort food, nothing beats a hearty dish of creamy baked pork chops with potatoes. This delightful recipe combines tender pork chops with a creamy, cheesy potato layer, all baked to perfection in one pan. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, it’s a win-win situation!
ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients List
Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this mouthwatering dish. The following ingredients are divided into two main sections: one for the pork chops and another for the creamy potato layer.
ADVERTISEMENT
| For the Pork Chops | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork chops | 6 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| For the Creamy Potato Layer | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced | 4 |
| Large onion, thinly sliced | 1 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried rosemary | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Pork Chops
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning is crucial for bringing out the natural flavors of the meat.
ADVERTISEMENT
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork chops on both sides until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps to lock in the juices and gives the pork chops a beautiful, flavorful crust. After searing, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Potato Layer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes and onions. Add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the creamy, cheesy mixture.
3. Assemble the Dish
Grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Spread the creamy potato mixture evenly in the baking dish. Arrange the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes. This positioning allows the pork juices to seep into the potatoes during baking, infusing the dish with additional flavor.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in, which helps the potatoes cook evenly.
4. Bake the Dish
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. This initial baking period allows the potatoes to begin cooking and the flavors to meld together. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes. This uncovered baking time allows the dish to develop a lovely, golden-brown top. To ensure the pork chops are fully cooked, check that the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C).
For an extra crispy top, you can broil the dish for the last 5 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the dish is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the pork chops are moist and tender. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
