This Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole is like a warm hug for your tummy! It’s packed with juicy pork chops, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes that all bake together to create a dish that’s oh-so-comforting.
Honestly, who could resist that cheesy goodness bubbling on top? I love serving this casserole with a simple salad on the side. It makes dinner feel extra cozy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give great flavor, but you can use boneless if that’s what you have. Just adjust cooking time since they cook faster!
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture. If you need a quicker option, frozen hash browns can also work well.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for depth of flavor. If you’re looking to lower fat, you could use a reduced-fat cheese. Or try a mix with mozzarella for a different twist!
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a tangy flavor and added protein. I use it whenever I want a healthier option!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you want a homemade touch, you can make a simple roux with butter and flour, then add your favorite broth and mushrooms. Otherwise, just grab a can for convenience!
What’s the Best Way to Layer the Ingredients?
Layering is a key step in achieving the perfect bite of the casserole. Here’s how I like to do it:
- Start with half the potatoes at the bottom. This gives a solid base.
- Spread half the cheese mixture on the potatoes to add creaminess.
- Next, place the browned pork chops in the middle. They infuse flavor as they cook.
- Top with the rest of the potatoes, followed by the remaining cheese mix. Don’t skimp on the cheese!
- Finish with a generous sprinkle of cheese on top for that bubbly, golden finish.
This layering not only helps with cooking evenness but also gives wonderful texture throughout the dish. Enjoy your cooking!
Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 3/4 inch thick
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare and then around 1 hour and 20 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be looking at a total of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a skillet over medium heat, add the melted butter and brown the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They don’t need to be fully cooked just yet—just golden and flavorful. After browning, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Mix the Creamy Layer:
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onion, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together until mixed well. This will give you a rich, creamy layer for the casserole!
4. Layer the Potatoes:
In the greased baking dish, layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. This creates a nice base for the casserole.
5. Add the Creamy Mixture:
Pour half of the creamy cheese mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out to make sure it covers all the potatoes evenly.
6. Place the Pork Chops:
Now, lay the browned pork chops over the creamy layer. Make sure they’re evenly spaced so every bite has a taste of pork chop!
7. Finish Layering:
Top the pork chops with the remaining sliced potatoes and then pour the rest of the creamy mixture over those potatoes.
8. Add Extra Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole for that delicious, melty finish!
9. Bake:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. After an hour, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the potatoes to be perfectly tender.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh taste. Enjoy your hearty Cheesy Pork Chop Potato Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Ideally, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing them in a bag and submerging them in cold water. Once thawed, you can proceed with browning as directed in the recipe.
Can I Substitute Different Cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can add a delicious twist to the flavor of the casserole.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the day before and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting cold from the fridge.