Elevate your dinner game with our mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops paired perfectly with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. This recipe offers a delightful combination of tender, juicy pork chops coated in a savory garlic-Parmesan crust, and rich, creamy potatoes layered with melted cheddar cheese. It's a comforting meal that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Follow along to discover how to create this delicious meal step-by-step.
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!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve these delectable Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes hot from the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, balancing the richness of the pork chops and potatoes with some light, crisp greens.
**Storage Tips:** If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For quicker reheating, you can also use a microwave, but the oven method helps maintain the best texture.
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:** According to Chef Gordon Ramsay, ensuring your pork chops are of even thickness helps them cook more uniformly, preventing overcooking. He also suggests letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes after searing to retain their juices.
**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.