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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Pork Chops:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the pork chops in the hot skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. The goal here isn’t to cook them all the way through but to develop a nice crust.
- Once browned, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside. We will finish cooking them in the casserole later.
2. Prepare the Casserole Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a more herby flavor, you can add dried thyme or rosemary at this point.
- Stir in about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping the casserole later.
3. Layer the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Spread the chopped onion over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the creamy mixture over the potatoes and onions, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes, gently pressing them into the layers.
- Pour the remaining creamy mixture over the pork chops, ensuring everything is well coated.
4. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the top of the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked (internal temperature of 145°F) and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will help it set and make it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Pork Chop Potato Casserole
- Thinly Slice the Potatoes: The thinner you slice the potatoes, the more evenly they cook and absorb the creamy sauce. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices and faster prep time.
- Use Bone-in Pork Chops for Extra Flavor: While boneless pork chops work great for this recipe, bone-in pork chops tend to have more flavor and stay juicier during the baking process.
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition, you can stir in some frozen peas, corn, or even chopped spinach into the creamy mixture before assembling the casserole.
- Cheese Variations: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan can add an interesting twist.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge. Simply pop it in the oven the next day and bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Why You Should Try Creamy Pork Chop Potato Casserole
Creamy Pork Chop Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy families and anyone looking for a hearty, satisfying meal. It combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, creamy potatoes, and succulent pork chops, making it a complete and filling dish. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and can be made in advance for added convenience.
This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, a special occasion, or even a holiday feast. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with its mouthwatering aroma and flavor-packed layers. If you love classic comfort food, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for a meal that’s both creamy and hearty, with a savory depth of flavor, Creamy Pork Chop Potato Casserole will definitely hit the spot. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy the satisfying combination of tender pork, cheesy potatoes, and creamy goodness!
Pro Tip: Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
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