Perfect Pork Chops with Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: A Classic Comfort Meal

There’s nothing quite like the comforting combination of juicy, flavorful pork chops paired with rich, creamy scalloped potatoes. This classic dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Below, you’ll find two foolproof recipes—one for tender, perfectly cooked pork chops and another for decadent, cheesy scalloped potatoes.

Recipe 1: Juicy Pan-Seared Pork Chops

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Pork Chops

• Remove pork chops from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.

• Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

• Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

2. Sear the Pork Chops

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (375°F).

• Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

• Reduce heat to medium (325°F), add butter and minced garlic, and baste the chops for 1-2 minutes.

3. Finish Cooking & Rest

• Pour in chicken broth, cover, and simmer for 5-6 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

• Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

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Recipe 2: Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced (⅛-inch thick)

• 3 tbsp butter

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep Potatoes

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Thinly slice potatoes (a mandoline works best for even slices).

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat (325°F), melt butter.

• Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until golden.

• Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until thickened (5-6 minutes).

• Add garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and 1 cup cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.

3. Layer Potatoes & Bake

• Arrange half the potatoes in the baking dish, pour half the sauce over them.

• Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.

• Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar and Parmesan.

• Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

• Uncover and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

• Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: A crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic green beans.

• Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Noir or Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Pork Chops: Season ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours.

• Scalloped Potatoes: Assemble 1 day in advance (keep refrigerated) and bake before serving.

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Final Thoughts

This Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The juicy, herb-infused pork pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy potatoes for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Total Cooking Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Enjoy this hearty, satisfying dish—it’s comfort food at its finest