Perfect Pork Chops with Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting combination of juicy, flavorful pork chops paired with rich, creamy scalloped potatoes. This classic dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Below, you’ll find two foolproof recipes—one for tender, perfectly cooked pork chops and another for decadent, cheesy scalloped potatoes.

Recipe 1: Juicy Pan-Seared Pork Chops

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Pork Chops

  • Remove pork chops from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.

  • Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

  • Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

2. Sear the Pork Chops

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (375°F).

  • Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

  • Reduce heat to medium (325°F), add butter and minced garlic, and baste the chops for 1-2 minutes.

3. Finish Cooking & Rest

  • Pour in chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 5-6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

  • Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

Recipe 2: Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (⅛-inch thick)

  • 3 tbsp butter

  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp dried thyme

  • ½ tsp paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep Potatoes

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Thinly slice potatoes (a mandoline works best for even slices).

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

  • In a saucepan over medium heat (325°F), melt butter.

  • Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.

  • Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until thickened (5-6 minutes).

  • Add garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and 1 cup cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.

3. Layer Potatoes & Bake

  • Arrange half the potatoes in the baking dish, pour half the sauce over them.

  • Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.

  • Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar and Parmesan.

  • Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

  • Uncover and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  • Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with: A crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic green beans.

  • Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Noir or Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

  • Pork Chops: Season ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours.

  • Scalloped Potatoes: Assemble 1 day in advance (keep refrigerated) and bake before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The juicy, herb-infused pork pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy potatoes for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Total Cooking Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Enjoy this hearty, satisfying dish—it’s comfort food at its finest

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