Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops paired with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a showstopping meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to impress. This dish combines tender, juicy pork chops with rich, creamy potatoes for the perfect comfort food experience.
Why This Recipe Works
Flavor-Packed Pork Chops: Garlic and Parmesan create a golden, crusty coating on the pork chops, enhancing their natural flavor.
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes: Layers of thinly sliced potatoes smothered in a cheesy, garlicky sauce make a luxurious side dish.
Balanced Meal: The savory pork and rich potatoes complement each other beautifully, making this a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Scalloped Potatoes:
4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Scalloped Potatoes
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Layer the Potatoes: Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared dish.
Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well.
Assemble: Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the potato slices, ensuring they are fully coated.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops
Season the Chops: Season the pork chops with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Press ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese onto both sides of the chops to create a crust.
Sear the Pork Chops: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
Step 3: Serve
Plate the pork chops alongside the cheesy scalloped potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
Tips for Recipe Success
Even Slicing: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure the potato slices are evenly thin. This ensures they cook uniformly.
Pork Chop Thickness: Choose pork chops about ¾ inch thick for even cooking and juicy results.
Rest the Meat: Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain their juices.
Customize the Cheese: Swap out cheddar for Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile in the scalloped potatoes.
Crispy Top: For extra crispiness, broil the scalloped potatoes for 2-3 minutes after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Vegetables: Pair with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for added freshness.
Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce from the potatoes.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this meal comes together beautifully.
Comforting and Filling: The creamy potatoes and savory pork chops create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Crowd-Pleaser: The rich flavors and hearty portions will delight even the pickiest eaters.
Prep and Cook Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~600
Protein: ~38g
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Fat: ~38g
Fiber: ~3g
Variations to Try
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the pork seasoning for some heat.
Herbaceous Flavor: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the scalloped potato sauce for added aroma.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the pork chops and serve the scalloped potatoes as a main dish with a side salad.
Add Bacon: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the scalloped potatoes for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the scalloped potatoes for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
A: Yes! Bone-in pork chops add flavor and stay juicier during cooking.
Q: Can I make the scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the dish and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
Closing Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a comforting and elegant meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The combination of tender, juicy pork chops with creamy, cheesy potatoes creates a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers every time.
Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal with your loved ones!