Are you in need of a cozy and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family? Look no further than our Layered Potato and Smothered Pork Chop Casserole recipe! This hearty dish features tender pork chops smothered in a savory gravy, layered with thinly sliced potatoes, and baked to perfection. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Join us as we delve into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this comforting casserole!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, approximately 1 inch thick
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 3 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- 2 pounds thinly sliced potatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Season the Pork Chops:
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Brown the Pork Chops:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chops on both sides until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside.
- Saute the Onion and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Gravy:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and all-purpose flour until smooth. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the browned pork chops on top of the potatoes. Pour the gravy over the pork chops and potatoes.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients:
- Pour the chicken broth over the pork chops and potatoes. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Sprinkle paprika over the cheese.
- Bake in the Oven:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops are cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the foil from the baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, consider adding sliced carrots, bell peppers, or green beans to the casserole layers.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a unique flavor twist.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the gravy for a touch of heat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to thicken the gravy. Use full-fat dairy products such as heavy cream and cheese, and skip the potatoes or substitute them with cauliflower florets.
- Low-Carb: Reduce the amount of potatoes used in the recipe and replace them with low-carb alternatives such as turnips or rutabagas. Use a low-carb chicken broth and opt for a lower-carb cheese option such as mozzarella or goat cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in? A: Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in chops.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftover casserole can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven until heated through.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of the oven? A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply follow steps 1-4 as directed, then transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker instead of a baking dish. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or until the pork chops are tender.
Conclusion:
Our Layered Potato and Smothered Pork Chop Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender pork chops, creamy gravy, and layers of thinly sliced potatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish to serve at your next gathering, this casserole fits the bill. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic comfort food!
