If you're in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal that pleases a crowd, pork chops with scalloped potatoes is a perfect choice. This classic dish combines tender, juicy pork chops with rich, creamy potatoes layered in cheese and milk. It's easy to prepare, yet indulgent enough for special occasions. Follow this detailed guide to master this recipe, and be sure to read to the end for pro tips, substitutions, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!
What Are Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes?
Pork chops with scalloped potatoes is a one-pan comfort meal that’s as rich in flavor as it is simple to make. The pork chops are usually pan-seared for a crisp outer layer, while the scalloped potatoes are baked in a creamy sauce made from milk, butter, cheese, and onions. Layer after layer of sliced potatoes becomes a bubbly, cheesy delight, pairing perfectly with the savory pork. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as a satisfying meal for guests, this dish is bound to become a favorite.
Ingredients List for Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish:
For the Potatoes:
- 5 Potatoes: White or Yukon Gold work best, thinly sliced.
- 1 Onion: Sliced or diced, depending on your preference.
- 1 cup Whole Milk: For creaminess.
- 3 cups Cheddar Cheese: Shredded and divided into portions for layering.
- 3 tablespoon Unsalted Butter: To create the roux and add richness.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: Season your dish to perfection.
For the Pork Chops:
- 5 Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless, your choice.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the pork before cooking.
Optional Additions:
- Chives or Green Onions: For garnish.
- A Sprinkle of Seasoning Salt: To enhance flavors.
- A Pinch of Garlic Salt: Adds depth to the dish.
Substitutions and Variations
If you don’t have all the ingredients or are looking to add your twist to the recipe, there are several substitutions and variations you can try:
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold and white potatoes are ideal, but red potatoes can be used for a slightly sweeter taste and firmer texture.
- Milk Alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk. For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Cheese: While Cheddar is the go-to cheese for this dish, other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Pork Chop Cuts: If pork chops aren’t available, this recipe also works well with chicken breasts or thighs.
- Seasoning: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to give the dish a bit of heat. For extra flavor, toss in minced garlic or even a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down this delicious meal into simple, manageable steps.

1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your dish cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Thinly slice them to about ⅛-inch thickness. You want them thin so they cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
3. Cook the Onions:
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced or diced onions and sauté until softened and golden brown, which will take about 5 minutes.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Gradually stir in 1 tablespoon of flour to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, and continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Once thickened, stir in 2 cups of the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Layer the Potatoes:
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Add half of the sautéed onions on top, followed by half of the cheese sauce. Repeat with another layer of potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cup of shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
6. Season and Sear the Pork Chops:
Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. In a separate skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, just until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and ensures the chops stay moist during baking.
7. Combine and Bake:
Nestle the seared pork chops on top of the layered potatoes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, the cheese is bubbly, and the pork chops are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
How to Cook Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by Preheating: Always begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the potatoes and onions, and shred the Cheddar cheese for layering.
- Sear the Pork Chops: Don’t skip this step—it helps create a caramelized crust and seals in the pork’s moisture.
- Layer the Potatoes and Onions: The layering ensures each bite of potatoes is packed with flavor from the onions and cheese sauce.
- Bake and Finish: Allow the dish to bake for the full time to ensure the potatoes become tender and the pork chops are fully cooked.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Searing: Searing the pork chops ensures they stay juicy and flavorful. If you skip this step, you may end up with dry, tough pork.
- Not Thinly Slicing the Potatoes: If the potatoes are too thick, they will take longer to cook and may end up undercooked in the center.
- Underseasoning: Don’t forget to season both the pork and potatoes adequately. Bland potatoes can ruin the dish.
- Overcooking: Keep an eye on the pork chops and potatoes during baking. Overcooked pork becomes dry, and the cheese sauce can burn if left too long uncovered.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving this dish, presentation is key. Make sure the pork chops and potatoes are plated with care to enhance their visual appeal.
How to Serve Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes:
- Serve the pork chops on individual plates, with a generous scoop of cheesy scalloped potatoes on the side.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped chives or green onions for a fresh touch and a pop of color.
Presentation Ideas for Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes:
- Consider serving this dish in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties.
- A drizzle of melted butter over the potatoes before serving can add a luxurious sheen and extra richness.
Pork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips
- Resting Time: Allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making them more tender and flavorful.
- Cheese Variations: Try blending in a bit of Parmesan or Gruyère for a more complex, cheesy flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the potato layers a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just sear the pork chops and assemble everything before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless pork chops. However, bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
Q: How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! You can add thinly sliced carrots, mushrooms, or even spinach layers with the potatoes for a veggie-packed version.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Simply replace the flour in the cheese sauce with cornstarch or another gluten-free thickening agent.
Conclusion
Pork chops with scalloped potatoes is a true comfort food classic that will bring warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. With tender pork, cheesy potatoes, and the perfect balance of flavors, this dish is both easy to make and impressive to serve. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, following this step-by-step guide will ensure delicious results every time. Enjoy your hearty meal!
PrintPork Chops With Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Enjoy a hearty meal with this Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe. Succulent pork chops seasoned to perfection combine with tender Yukon Gold potatoes, a rich cheddar cheese sauce, and sliced onions. This easy, one-pan dish is perfect for family dinners. Serve with a garnish of chives or green onions for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 5 potatoes (white or Yukon Gold)
- 5 pork chops
- 1 onion (sliced or diced)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 cups Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chives or green onions, seasoning salt, garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Thinly slice the potatoes and layer them in the dish.
- Scatter sliced onions over the potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the pork chops on top of the potatoes and onions.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, add milk, and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the pork chops and potatoes.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and the pork chops are fully cooked.
- Optional: Garnish with chives or green onions before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle seasoning salt and a pinch of garlic salt over the pork chops.
- Yukon Gold potatoes add a creamy texture, but white potatoes work well too.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pork chop with potatoes
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
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