Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Imagine the perfect balance of flavors and textures 🍴. Our Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe brings this vision to life. The pork chops, seasoned with a blend of garlic and Parmesan, create a crust that’s irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Paired with scalloped potatoes, each slice layered with a velvety cheese sauce, infuses every bite with creamy goodness. 🧀 The secret? A touch of thyme and a hint of garlic in the potatoes, coupled with the umami depth of Parmesan crusted on the pork. It’s a dish that elevates everyday ingredients to extraordinary heights. Whether it’s a special occasion or a comforting weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s not forget the joy of cooking something that fills the kitchen with aromas that promise a meal to remember. 🌟

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 boneless pork chops
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray.

Prepare the Pork Chops:

1. Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper.
2. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan, bread crumbs, dried thyme, dried oregano, and paprika.
3. Coat each pork chop evenly with the Parmesan mixture.

Cook the Pork Chops:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the pork chops for 3–4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
3. Transfer the pork chops to the prepared baking dish.

Prepare the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it becomes bubbly.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
4. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Arrange the potato slices evenly in the baking dish.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are well-covered.

Bake:

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Serve:

1. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
3. Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes!

Helpful Notes about the Recipe

• Variations: This versatile recipe allows for many delicious variations. For instance, you can substitute the pork chops with chicken breasts for a different protein option. Additionally, consider using a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella and Gruyère in the scalloped potatoes for a unique twist.
• Chef’s Tips: Ensuring your pork chops are of even thickness helps them cook more uniformly, preventing overcooking. Letting the pork rest for a few minutes after searing will also lock in the juices for a tender bite.
• Nutrition: This dish provides a balanced mix of protein from the pork chops and carbohydrates from the potatoes. For a lighter version, use skim milk and reduced-fat cheese in the scalloped potatoes.