Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that combines the savory taste of garlic, the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan, and the comfort of cheesy potatoes, then you're in for a treat! This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the perfect option for a family dinner or even a cozy date night at home. Stay with us throughout this article, as we break down everything you need to know about how to prepare this delicious dish, complete with variations, tips, and serving ideas.

this Recipe

What Are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are succulent, juicy pork chops infused with the flavor of garlic and coated in crispy, golden Parmesan cheese. Paired with cheesy scalloped potatoes—thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich, creamy cheese sauce—this combination is an irresistible crowd-pleaser. This meal brings together the savory notes of pork and cheese with the creamy texture of potatoes, creating a comforting and indulgent dish that feels like pure home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

1. Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless, about 4 chops, 1 inch thick.
2. Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
3. Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated.
4. Panko Breadcrumbs: ½ cup for added crunch.
5. Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten.
6. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for frying.
7. Salt and Pepper: To taste.
8. Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon for an extra burst of flavor.
9. Butter: 2 tablespoons to brown the pork chops.
10. Paprika: ½ teaspoon for a smoky touch.
11. Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

Ingredients List for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

1. Russet Potatoes: 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced.
2. Heavy Cream: 1 ½ cups for a rich, creamy sauce.
3. Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded (or a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella).
4. Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
5. Butter: 3 tablespoons, divided.
6. Flour: 2 tablespoons for thickening the sauce.
7. Milk: 1 cup for extra creaminess.
8. Salt and Pepper: To taste.
9. Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon for a subtle onion flavor.
10. Chives or Green Onions: For garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

1. Pork Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of pork, chicken breasts or thighs work just as well. Follow the same steps to coat and cook the chicken.
2. Gluten-Free Option: For those avoiding gluten, you can swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, use cornstarch in place of flour for the scalloped potatoes.
3. Cheese Variations: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to get creative with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for the scalloped potatoes.
4. Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese amount slightly. However, the dish will lose some richness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking both the garlic Parmesan pork chops and cheesy scalloped potatoes might seem like a big task, but breaking it down step by step makes the process easy and manageable.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Pork Chops: Season your pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Set aside.
2. Coat the Pork Chops: In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each pork chop into the beaten egg, then coat it generously with the Parmesan mixture.
3. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer the pork chops to a baking dish.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pork chops in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Garnish: Once the pork chops are done, sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Cook Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep the Potatoes: Thinly slice your potatoes, aiming for about ⅛-inch thickness. A mandoline slicer works well for uniform slices.
2. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure the sauce is smooth. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
4. Layer the Potatoes: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish: Let the potatoes cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, then sprinkle with chives or green onions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pork Chops: Pork chops can dry out easily if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F and no more.
2. Not Slicing Potatoes Evenly: Uneven potato slices can lead to inconsistent cooking. A mandoline slicer is your best friend for uniformity.
3. Skipping the Sauce Thickening: Failing to thicken the cheese sauce can result in watery scalloped potatoes. Take the time to make the roux and let the sauce thicken properly before adding the cheese.
4. Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Always grate your own cheese for the best results.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This dish is indulgent, so make sure it’s presented in a way that complements its rich flavors.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

• Serve the pork chops on a large platter, with the cheesy scalloped potatoes on the side. Make sure to drizzle any leftover pan juices from the pork chops over the top for extra flavor.
• For a balanced meal, serve with a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad to lighten things up.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Serve the potatoes in the same baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves. The golden-brown top with crispy edges is a visual treat.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, and sprinkle an extra handful of cheese on top just before serving for added appeal.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops Recipe Tips

1. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning the pork chops. The Parmesan crust needs bold flavors to shine through.
2. Rest the Meat: Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after baking to keep them juicy.
3. Bake Covered Potatoes: Covering the potatoes while baking ensures they cook evenly and the sauce doesn’t dry out too quickly.
4. Reheat with Care: If you have leftovers, reheat the pork chops in the oven to maintain the crispy crust rather than using the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the cheesy scalloped potatoes up to a day in advance and bake them just before serving. The pork chops, however, are best served fresh to maintain their crispy coating.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: A light green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans pair wonderfully with the richness of this meal.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store the pork chops and potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pork chops in the oven and the potatoes in the microwave or oven.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: You can freeze the scalloped potatoes, but the pork chops are best eaten fresh or refrigerated. If you do freeze the potatoes, make sure to cover them well, and reheat them in the oven.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a decadent, flavor-packed meal that's sure to impress your family or guests. The combination of crispy, juicy pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes is the definition of comfort food. With our step-by-step guide, substitutions, and tips, you’ll have everything you need to make this dish perfectly. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

Print