Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting, and hearty meal, this Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is sure to hit the spot. The combination of juicy, flavorful pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes makes for a perfect dinner that’s sure to impress family and friends. This recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require advanced culinary skills—anyone can make it! Read on to learn how to prepare this mouthwatering meal from scratch.

What Are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a delicious, savory dish that brings together tender pork chops seasoned with garlic and Parmesan cheese, paired with a side of creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. The pork chops are typically pan-seared or baked to perfection, while the potatoes are thinly sliced, layered, and baked in a rich, cheesy sauce. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors that makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. This recipe is versatile enough to be served for a casual family dinner or for entertaining guests.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Ingredients List for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional for added flavor)
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

• Pork Chops: If you don’t have pork chops, you can substitute with chicken breast or turkey cutlets. Adjust the cooking time accordingly since these cuts may cook faster than pork chops.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, Gouda, or Swiss cheese are great alternatives to cheddar for the scalloped potatoes. You can also add a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used. They are creamy and hold their shape well when baked.
• Cream and Milk: If you’re looking to cut down on calories, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or use whole milk instead. However, the sauce may be slightly less rich.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Italian seasoning and garlic add a robust flavor to the pork chops, but you can customize this with other herbs like rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a straightforward process, but it does involve a few steps. Here’s a guide to help you make it perfectly.

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

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking both the pork chops and the scalloped potatoes evenly.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Rub the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over each pork chop.
3. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. You don’t need to cook them through at this point, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes). Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then add salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir in ¼ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Layer the Potatoes: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the potato slices in an even layer. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce, ensuring the sauce covers all the potatoes.
6. Combine Pork Chops with Potatoes: Place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes in the baking dish. This allows the flavors from the pork chops to infuse into the potatoes as they bake.
7. Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top. Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
8. Rest Before Serving: Once the baking is complete, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to cut into the potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Sear: Searing the pork chops before baking adds a depth of flavor and locks in juices. Don’t skip this step, as it helps prevent the pork from drying out.
• Thick Potato Slices: If your potato slices are too thick, they may not cook through. Aim for thin, even slices (about ⅛ inch) to ensure they become tender during baking.
• Not Seasoning Layers: Make sure to season the potatoes and cheese sauce. Bland potatoes can make the whole dish taste flat, so add salt and pepper generously to enhance the flavors.
• Using Low-Fat Milk Only: Low-fat milk doesn’t create a creamy sauce. For the best results, stick with heavy cream or whole milk, or a mix of both.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make this dish look as delicious as it tastes, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Their bright green color contrasts nicely with the golden, cheesy top layer. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving to add visual appeal and extra flavor.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This dish is filling enough to be a meal on its own, but you can serve it with a light side salad or steamed green vegetables like asparagus or green beans for added color and nutrition. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy and cheesy elements of this recipe.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Serve the pork chops on individual plates with a generous spoonful of scalloped potatoes on the side.
• Use fresh herbs as a garnish, scattering a few thyme leaves or chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.
• Serve in a rustic baking dish for a family-style presentation, allowing everyone to help themselves.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prep the potatoes and cheese sauce a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply layer the potatoes, pour over the sauce, and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: This dish reheats well in the oven. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Adjusting for Dietary Needs: If you want to make this dish gluten-free, double-check that your cheese and any other seasonings are free from gluten additives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, boneless pork chops can be used, but they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so monitor them closely.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, follow the same instructions, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if necessary.
3. What’s the best way to slice the potatoes? A mandoline slicer is ideal for achieving thin, uniform potato slices, but a sharp knife will work too.
4. How can I make this dish lighter? You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese if desired, though this will make the dish less creamy.
5. What can I do with leftover scalloped potatoes? Leftover scalloped potatoes can be repurposed as a side for another meal, or even as a filling for a breakfast omelet.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a comforting, savory meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The pork chops are juicy and flavorful, while the cheesy, creamy scalloped potatoes are downright indulgent. This recipe is easy enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for entertaining. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Happy cooking!

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