Craving a hearty, comforting meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato recipe is the perfect blend of savory pork and creamy, cheesy potatoes. It's a delicious dish ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. This recipe provides a quick dinner idea, perfect for those busy weeknights, without sacrificing flavor or homemade goodness. Get ready to enjoy a truly delightful meal that's both healthy and incredibly tasty!
Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Scalloped Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Season pork chops generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
Make the Scalloped Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with 1/4 cup of the melted butter. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Layer half of the potatoes in the skillet around the seared pork chops. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Top with the remaining potatoes and the rest of the cheese sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake and Serve:
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for easier serving.
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a mandoline slicer to ensure evenly sliced potatoes for even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the pork chops; work in batches if necessary.
- For a creamier sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add other cheeses, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Garlic Lovers: Add minced garlic to the pork chop seasoning and the cheese sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the potatoes or pork chops for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a family dinner or a comforting night in. Enjoy!