These juicy garlic butter pork chops are super tasty and packed with flavor! Pair them with a creamy cheesy potato bake that makes every bite feel cozy and warm.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness on potatoes? I always find myself going back for seconds, and maybe thirds! 😄 Enjoy this dinner with your favorite veggie for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, boneless chops or even chicken breasts could work well as substitutes. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using olive oil instead, which still adds nice flavor.
Potatoes: Russets are perfect for baking due to their starchy nature. For a creamier texture, Yukon Golds do well too. Sweet potatoes can be a fun alternative for a different flavor!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but I love mixing it with mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can provide a great cheesy flavor too.
How Do You Make Sure Your Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky, but a few easy steps can help you nail it! First, seasoning the chops is crucial before cooking. Patting them dry removes moisture, allowing for better browning.
- Heat oil in a skillet first to ensure a good sear. Searing creates a delicious crust, locking in juices.
- Use garlic and thyme in the butter while cooking for extra flavor. Baste the chops with the melted garlic butter for that savory taste.
- Lastly, let the chops rest after cooking. This helps retain moisture for juicy results!
What’s the Best Way to Make Cheesy Potato Bake Creamy?
The key to a creamy potato bake lies in the cheese sauce! Start by making a roux with butter and flour; this thickens the sauce and gives it a nice texture. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream to prevent lumps.
- Include minced garlic and herbs to infuse flavor. Don’t rush this step – take time to stir until the sauce is smooth.
- Layering the potatoes with the sauce helps each potato slice get that cheesy goodness throughout the bake.
- Cover with foil while baking to steam the potatoes, then remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to get a bubbly, golden top.
Enjoy making this dish! It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Potato Bake:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (if making a cheese sauce)
- Extra cheese for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, approximately 1 hour for cooking, and then a few minutes to plate. Overall, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels to help them get a nice sear. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika for extra flavor. This simple step makes a big difference!
2. Cook the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Next, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the pan. Spoon the garlicky butter over the pork chops while cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and cover with foil to keep warm while you prepare the potato bake.
3. Prepare the Cheesy Potato Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Then, add the minced garlic, thyme (or rosemary), salt, and pepper, mixing well. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and smooth.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Layer half of your sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the dish, followed by half the sliced onions. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this layer. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce. If you like, sprinkle some extra cheese on top. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or so until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve:
Once everything is cooked, plate the rested garlic butter pork chops alongside a generous slice of the cheesy potato bake. Don’t forget to garnish the pork chops with freshly chopped parsley for a colorful finish. Enjoy warm, and savor every delicious bite!
This recipe serves about 4 people. Adjust quantities as needed for your crowd!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work well too. Just be cautious of the cooking time; they may cook a bit quicker, so check for doneness at around 3 minutes per side.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole milk or a mix of milk and sour cream can substitute for heavy cream. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be somewhat less rich and creamy.
Can I Prepare the Cheesy Potato Bake in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the potato bake ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For best results, gently reheat in the oven to maintain the texture of the cheesy potato bake!
