Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

A rich, creamy, and comforting family-style dinner that combines tender, juicy pork chops with layers of cheesy scalloped potatoes baked to golden perfection. This hearty casserole is the ultimate comfort food — perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or when you want a satisfying homemade meal that feels special without being complicated.

 Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

For the Scalloped Potatoes:

• 4–5 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar/mozzarella blend)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the pork chops for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
   (They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage — they will finish baking in the oven.)
5. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 3–5 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish.
4. Add half of the sliced onions.
5. Pour some of the cream sauce over the potatoes.
6. Repeat with remaining potatoes, onions, and sauce.
7. Place the seared pork chops on top.
8. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over everything.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 40 minutes.
3. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
4. Make sure the potatoes are tender and the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

 Serving Suggestions

• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
• Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for extra color.

Tips for Best Results

• Slice potatoes very thin for even cooking.
• For extra flavor, add sliced mushrooms or minced garlic to the sauce.
• You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.