Pork Chops & Rice Casserole

Instructions:

1. Sear the Pork Chops

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, season the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Sear the pork chops in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned but not fully cooked through. This step adds flavor and helps seal in the juices. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.

2. Prepare the Rice Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chopped onion, and the can of cream of mushroom soup. Add the chicken broth (or water) and stir to combine. Season the mixture with a bit more salt and pepper to taste. If you want to add extra flavor, you can also toss in some dried thyme or rosemary, which pairs beautifully with pork.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the rice mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Place the seared pork chops on top of the rice mixture. It’s okay if the pork chops slightly overlap the rice—this will ensure the flavors meld together as it bakes.
• Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and ensure the pork chops remain juicy.

4. Bake the Casserole

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pork chops are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 145°F) and the rice is tender.
• Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the pork chops to brown slightly on top and to let the rice absorb the remaining liquid.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color.
• Serve the pork chops alongside the rice, spooning some of the flavorful rice and sauce over the meat. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:

• Bone-In vs. Boneless Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops tend to retain moisture better, but boneless pork chops work just as well if you prefer them. If you use thicker cuts, you may need to adjust the cooking time.
• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition. Try adding peas, carrots, or even mushrooms to the rice mixture.
• Use Brown Rice: If you prefer brown rice, you can substitute it for white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Add about 2 cups of chicken broth and bake for 60-70 minutes instead of 45.
• Make It Creamier: For a creamier casserole, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a combination of sour cream and a little milk or heavy cream. This will give the dish an even richer texture.

Why This Pork Chops & Rice Casserole is a Winner:

This Pork Chops & Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and filling, with minimal effort required. The pork chops stay juicy and tender while infusing the rice with delicious flavors as they bake together in the casserole dish. The creamy rice, seasoned with the savory broth and soup, perfectly complements the meat, making this a one-pan meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So keep this recipe safe in your collection—you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again!

Customizations and Variations:

• Cheesy Version: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole in the last 10 minutes of baking. The melted cheese adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a little heat by incorporating diced green chilies, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce into the rice mixture.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage can be added to the rice mixture or sprinkled on top of the pork chops before baking for extra depth of flavor.

Whether you make it as-is or try out one of these variations, Pork Chops & Rice Casserole is a simple, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!