Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes in the dish, making sure they overlap slightly.
In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream, milk, and minced garlic over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer (but not boil).
Once simmering, add in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and thyme. Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the potatoes, making sure all the layers are well-coated.
Dot the top with small pieces of butter and sprinkle paprika for color (optional).
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cook the pork chops:
While the scalloped potatoes are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
Add the pork chops to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. You may need to work in batches if your skillet is not large enough.
Once seared, reduce the heat to medium, add butter and thyme to the skillet, and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve the meal:
Plate the pork chops alongside a generous serving of scalloped potatoes. Garnish with additional fresh thyme or parsley, if desired.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving tips: Pork chops and scalloped potatoes pair beautifully with steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or even a side of applesauce. If you want to add a bit of brightness, consider squeezing some fresh lemon over the pork chops before serving.
Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the pork chops and scalloped potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, covering the scalloped potatoes with foil to keep them from drying out. For reheating, warm at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until hot throughout.
Freezing: Scalloped potatoes can be frozen, but the texture might change slightly after thawing. If freezing, cool the potatoes completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Pork chops can also be frozen and stored in separate bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Variants:
Creamy Garlic Scalloped Potatoes: For a stronger garlic flavor, sauté the minced garlic in butter before adding it to the cream mixture. This will enhance the garlic flavor throughout the dish.
Add Vegetables to the Scalloped Potatoes: For added texture and nutrition, layer in some cooked vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or onions between the potato slices.
Pork Chops with a Sweet Glaze: If you prefer a sweet contrast to the savory pork, glaze the pork chops with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard in the last 2 minutes of cooking. This sweet-savory combination complements the richness of the scalloped potatoes.
Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses for the scalloped potatoes. Gruyère, Gouda, or mozzarella can add a different texture and flavor profile, making the dish your own.
FAQ:
Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used. Since boneless pork chops are thinner, reduce the cooking time to about 4-5 minutes per side for a juicy result.
How do I prevent scalloped potatoes from being watery?
To avoid watery scalloped potatoes, ensure that the cream and milk mixture thickens before pouring it over the potatoes. Additionally, be sure to bake the dish uncovered in the final stage to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the scalloped potatoes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. For the pork chops, you can season them and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. Simply reheat the potatoes before serving and cook the pork chops fresh for the best results.
What is the best way to ensure pork chops are juicy?
For tender and juicy pork chops, don’t overcook them. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness is the most accurate way to avoid overcooking. The ideal internal temperature for pork chops is 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest time.
Can I make this recipe without cheese?
Yes, you can make the scalloped potatoes without cheese if you prefer a lighter version. Just adjust the seasoning and use a bit more cream or milk for the desired consistency. For a non-dairy option, consider using coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Conclusion:
Pork chops with scalloped potatoes is the ultimate comfort food combination. This meal is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twists, this dish is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Serve it up with a side of vegetables, and you have a complete meal that’s both filling and delicious. Try it for your next dinner and experience the comforting warmth of this timeless pairing!
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