Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes
When it comes to crafting a comforting, home-cooked meal, few dishes can compare to the classic pairing of Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes. This recipe brings together the succulent flavors of tender pork chops and the creamy richness of cheesy scalloped potatoes, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, special occasions, or simply whenever you’re in the mood for a hearty dish. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step to ensure your pork chops are perfectly cooked and your scalloped potatoes are irresistibly creamy.
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (white or Yukon Gold) | 5, peeled and thinly sliced |
| Pork chops | 5 |
| Onion | 1, sliced or diced |
| Whole milk | 1 cup |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 3 cups |
| Butter, unsalted | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Optional: Chives or green onions | For garnish |
| Optional: Seasoning salt | To taste |
| Optional: Garlic salt | To taste |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the pork chops to cook through while ensuring the potatoes become tender and the cheese sauce reaches that perfect bubbly, golden state.
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2. Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, aiming for slices that are about ⅛ inch thick. A mandoline slicer can be incredibly helpful here, ensuring uniform slices that cook evenly. Once sliced, place the potatoes in a bowl of cold water. This step helps remove excess starch, preventing the potatoes from sticking together and turning brown.
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3. Sear the Pork Chops
Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Once hot, sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The goal is to achieve a nice golden-brown crust while keeping the inside slightly undercooked, as the chops will finish cooking in the oven. Once seared, set the pork chops aside.
4. Prepare the Cheesy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Then, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the onions and stir constantly for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly.
Next, add 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir until the cheese is fully melted, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you want to elevate the flavors further, consider adding a pinch of garlic salt and a sprinkle of seasoning salt.
5. Assemble the Dish
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, then season them with a bit of salt and pepper. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce. Finally, arrange the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes and sauce.
6. Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes. This final baking stage allows the potatoes to become tender and the top to develop a beautiful, golden-brown crust. If you’re a fan of extra cheesiness, you can sprinkle an additional cup of shredded Cheddar cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions for a fresh and vibrant touch. Serve the pork chops alongside the scalloped potatoes, and consider pairing the dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
