Pork Chops Scalloped Potatoes

This Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a classic comfort dish that combines juicy pork chops and tender, cheesy potatoes in one pan for a meal that always brings everyone to the table. The creamy layers of potatoes soak up all the flavors from the meat and onions, making each bite satisfying and reminiscent of big family dinners.

When I made this for my brother’s birthday dinner he declared it his new favorite meal and even packed up the leftovers for work the next day. It became an immediate family staple.

Ingredients

• Potatoes: White or Yukon Gold offer creamy texture and soak up flavor perfectly choose firm and unblemished potatoes
• Pork chops: Opt for bone-in for extra flavor make sure they are thick enough to stay juicy while baking
• Onion: Sliced or diced to add sweetness and depth yellow onions bring the best flavor
• Whole milk: Adds creaminess to the potatoes whole milk works best for richness
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded fresh off the block melts best and gives a tangy cheesy punch
• Unsalted butter: Dotting on top for moisture and richness opt for good-quality butter for best taste
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning taste as you go for perfect results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a baking dish with butter or oil so nothing sticks during baking

Prepare the Vegetables:

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into consistent quarter inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline for even cooking Dice or slice your onion as evenly as possible so it cooks evenly with the potatoes

Shred the Cheese:

Grate the cheddar cheese yourself if possible since fresh shreds melt more smoothly and infuse the potatoes better

Mix Ingredients:

Gently toss your sliced potatoes onions shredded cheddar milk salt and pepper until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Add your potato mixture to the greased baking dish and dot the surface with small pieces of butter for a golden and rich finish

Add Pork Chops:

Season your pork chops with a bit of extra salt and pepper and lay them across the top of the potatoes giving each chop space for air to circulate

Bake in Oven:

Slide the dish into the hot oven and bake for about fifty five minutes flipping the pork chops over halfway through so both sides brown equally

Check Doneness:

Test the potatoes with a fork to make sure they are tender and check if the pork chops are cooked through If everything needs a bit more time cover the dish with foil and bake an extra ten to fifteen minutes for even moisture

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I always look forward to using sharp cheddar cheese in this dish because it melts into the potatoes and creates those gooey cheesy pockets that my kids race to scoop out first. Seeing everyone gather around for seconds is my favorite part of making this meal.

Storage tips

Let leftovers cool before transferring them to an airtight container Store in the fridge for up to three days To reheat cover with foil and bake at three hundred fifty degrees until warmed through or microwave individual portions adding a splash of milk to keep things creamy It even freezes well for up to two months

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap whole milk for half and half for a richer touch or use a combination of mild and sharp cheddar cheese for extra depth If you are out of onions leeks or shallots also work in a pinch Bone-in or boneless pork chops both suit this recipe just adjust the baking time for thickness

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Serving suggestions

Serve hot right from the oven with a simple green salad and steamed green beans for a well rounded meal For a little kick sprinkle some smoked paprika over the potatoes before baking or garnish with chopped fresh parsley for freshness

Cultural context

Scalloped potatoes have roots in European home cooking and have long been a staple in American comfort food This dish blends meltingly tender potatoes with a classic Midwestern pork chop dinner making it a timeless favorite for family gatherings and holidays

Common Recipe Questions

→ How can I get the pork extra tender?

Choose bone-in pork chops and avoid overbaking. Flip halfway and rest the chops after baking for juicier meat.

→ What potatoes work best for this dish?

White or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal—they hold their shape and create a creamy texture once baked.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance. Refrigerate covered and bake when ready to serve.

→ Is it possible to use other cheeses?

Certainly! Try swapping cheddar for a blend like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool leftovers, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, thinly sliced carrots or spinach can be added with the potatoes for more color and nutrients.