Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

If you’re looking for a satisfying and flavorful dinner that will impress the entire family, look no further! Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a mouthwatering meal that combines juicy, tender pork chops with rich, creamy potatoes—all made in one baking dish. This comforting, home-cooked dish is easy enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Let’s dive into this ultimate comfort food recipe!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a comforting classic that’s loaded with flavor. The pork chops are seasoned to perfection with garlic and Parmesan cheese, then baked alongside layers of thinly sliced potatoes coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. The result is a wonderfully flavorful and complete meal—perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty but don’t want to dirty multiple dishes. Let’s look at what you’ll need to make this delicious dish.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops: In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub the pork chops with olive oil and then coat each chop with the Parmesan mixture. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce for Potatoes:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
   • Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
   • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat once the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Arrange the remaining potato slices on top and pour the rest of the cheese sauce over them, ensuring all the potatoes are covered.
5. Add the Pork Chops: Place the seasoned pork chops on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, and the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
7. Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional): If you want a golden, crispy finish, switch your oven to the broil setting and broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Rest and Serve: Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Potato Slicing: Use a mandoline slicer to get evenly thin potato slices. This will ensure even cooking.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. The cheese will add some saltiness, so taste before adding extra salt.

Variations

• Herb-Crusted Pork Chops: Add fresh chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the Parmesan coating for extra flavor.
• Mushroom Addition: Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms between the potato layers for an extra savory kick.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture for a hint of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake it when you’re ready. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

2. What Type of Potatoes Should I Use?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for scalloped potatoes. They hold their shape well and create a creamy texture.

3. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

4. Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops?

Yes, bone-in pork chops can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as bone-in chops take a bit longer to cook.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a hearty and satisfying meal that combines tender, juicy pork chops with rich and creamy potatoes. This one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. The flavors of garlic and Parmesan work beautifully together, while the cheesy scalloped potatoes provide the perfect creamy side. Try this recipe for a comforting and delicious dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Enjoy your cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!