Creamy scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with tender, juicy pork chops. This recipe takes the traditional scalloped potatoes to the next level by adding a creamy, cheesy sauce and baking them until they are golden brown and bubbly. Serve this dish as a hearty and satisfying main course for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops
- 6 potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Creamy Scalloped Potatoes with Pork Chops:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat and sear the pork chops until browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the onion and garlic mixture over the potatoes, then top with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onion and garlic mixture, and cheese.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a paste, then gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Pour the sauce over the potatoes and cheese in the baking dish, making sure to cover them evenly.
- Arrange the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes and sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops are cooked through.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because they hold their shape well and have a nice creamy texture when cooked.
- Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of cheddar cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
- Pork Chops: Choose bone-in pork chops for more flavor and juiciness. You can also use boneless pork chops if you prefer.
- Milk and Butter: These ingredients are used to make the creamy sauce that binds the dish together. Whole milk is best for a rich and creamy sauce, but you can use low-fat milk if you prefer.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth of flavor to the dish and complement the creamy sauce and cheese.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and paprika are used to season the pork chops and potatoes, adding layers of flavor to the dish. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
This creamy scalloped potatoes with pork chops recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The tender pork chops, creamy potatoes, and cheesy sauce make for a comforting and delicious meal that everyone will love. Serve it with a side of green vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.
