These Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake make for a perfect, comforting dinner that will satisfy the whole family. Tender pork chops cooked in a rich, creamy garlic sauce paired with a cheesy, perfectly baked potato dish is a winning combination. This hearty meal is ideal for cozy nights in when you need something warm and delicious on the table. Let’s get started on this easy-to-make comfort classic!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Pork Chops
2. Instructions for Creamy Garlic Pork Chops
3. Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Bake
4. Instructions for Cheesy Potato Bake
5. Tips & Notes
6. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
8. Conclusion

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Pork Chops

• 4 boneless pork chops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions for Creamy Garlic Pork Chops

Step 1: Season and Sear the Pork Chops

• Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
• Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and onion powder. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops in the Sauce

• Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
• Lower the heat and let the pork chops simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until they are fully cooked (internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C).
• Serve hot with a generous spoonful of the creamy garlic sauce on top.

Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Bake

• 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4-5 medium potatoes)
• 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions for Cheesy Potato Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
• Layer the sliced potatoes evenly in the greased baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Cream Mixture

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
• Pour the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Bake

• Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
• Remove the foil, sprinkle with the reserved cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Tips & Notes

• Sear for Flavor: Searing the pork chops before adding them to the sauce adds a lot of flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Uniform Potato Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Let It Rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep them juicy and tender.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Herb Variations: Substitute thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herbaceous flavor.
• Add Veggies: Add spinach or mushrooms to the creamy garlic sauce for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Substitutes: Use Gruyere or Monterey Jack in the potato bake for a different cheesy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops, but they may need a few extra minutes of cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make both the pork chops and the potato bake ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

These Creamy Garlic Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake are the ultimate comfort food combination—tender pork chops in a creamy garlic sauce and cheesy, delicious potatoes baked to perfection. This meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests who crave something hearty and full of flavor. With easy steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a comforting classic ready to enjoy in no time.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!