Mama’s Casserole Pork Chops is a comforting, family-favorite dish that brings back memories of hearty, home-cooked meals. This recipe features tender pork chops, smothered in a creamy sauce and baked to perfection with a rich layer of casserole-style goodness. It’s simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Serve these delicious pork chops with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Season and Sear the Pork Chops: Season the pork chops with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds flavor to the dish.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Place the seared pork chops in the prepared baking dish. If using, spread the sliced mushrooms over the pork chops. Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the pork chops.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and fully cooked (an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using cheese, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Perfect Pork Chops
- Sear for Flavor: Searing the pork chops before baking adds extra flavor and helps seal in the juices, making the pork chops tender and delicious.
- Don’t Overcook: Pork chops can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Rest Before Serving: Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish.
Recipe Variations
- Creamy Herb Pork Chops: Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary or parsley to the sauce for an extra herbal note.
- French Onion Pork Chops: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of onion soup and add caramelized onions for a French onion twist.
- Cheesy Potato Casserole: Add thinly sliced potatoes to the baking dish along with the pork chops for a hearty, one-pan meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
A: Yes, boneless pork chops work well for this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as boneless pork chops may cook a little faster.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an additional 10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Mama’s Casserole Pork Chops are a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With tender pork chops baked in a savory sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a nostalgic, home-cooked meal. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies, these pork chops are sure to be a hit. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, hearty dinner that everyone will love!