This Smothered Pork Chop Casserole is a warm and cozy dish with tender pork chops, creamy sauce, and comforting veggies. It’s like a big hug on a plate!
Honestly, who can resist a meal that requires just one dish? I love how easy it is to whip this up after a long day. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add great flavor, but boneless ones work too! Just adjust cooking time since they usually cook faster.
Onion: Yellow onions provide sweetness. For a sharper taste, consider using red onions, or if you want a milder flavor, go for sweet onions.
Mushrooms: These are optional, but they add a nice earthy note. You can substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers or even frozen peas for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can substitute, though the sauce might not be as rich.
Cheese: While cheddar is tasty, mozzarella gives a nice gooey texture. Feel free to mix cheeses based on your preference!
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pork chops to perfection can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right. Start with searing the chops to lock in flavor. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Preheat your skillet to medium-high before adding the oil; this ensures a good sear.
- Cook pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side; they should be golden brown.
- After returning them to the sauce, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 145°F (63°C).
- Let them rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps juices redistribute, keeping them juicy!
Trust me, following these tips will result in tender, flavorful pork chops every time!
How to Make Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Time Estimate:
This lovely casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 30 minutes to cook, for a total of about 45 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal that packs flavor without a lot of fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly when it’s time to bake!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Generously season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the meat, making every bite delicious.
3. Sear the Pork Chops:
In a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned. After searing, remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Onions and Mushrooms:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the sliced onions. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re soft and translucent. If you’re using mushrooms, add those in and sauté for another 3 minutes.
5. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now!
6. Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and mushrooms. Stir well to coat evenly, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Add the smoked paprika, thyme, and Dijon mustard. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and simmers for about 3-5 minutes.
7. Combine Chops and Sauce:
Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Make sure they’re well-coated!
8. Add Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the pork chops. This cheesy goodness will melt beautifully during baking.
9. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let it Rest:
Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to settle.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley to add a touch of color and flavor. This casserole is perfect with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy Smothered Pork Chop Casserole!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they typically cook faster, so monitor their doneness to avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, consider using half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese option!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in the oven cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.
