This Smothered Pork Chop Casserole is a cozy dish packed with tender pork chops, creamy sauce, and yummy vegetables. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any meal!
I can’t help but love how easy it is to make! Just layer everything in a dish and let the oven do the magic. Perfect for busy nights when you want something filling and tasty! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for this dish; they stay juicy during cooking. If you have boneless chops, they work too, but adjust cooking time as they may cook faster.
Onions: I like using yellow onions for their sweetness. If you’re short on time, shallots can be a great alternative as they add a milder flavor.
Mushrooms: While optional, they really enhance the sauce. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can skip them or replace them with bell peppers for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream creates a rich sauce. For a lighter version, half-and-half or even milk can work, but the sauce won’t be as creamy.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Gouda for a fun twist.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Browned Pork Chops?
Browning the pork chops is key for flavor. Start with a hot skillet—this helps form a beautiful crust. Here’s how you can do it:
- Pat the chops dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear, rather than steam.
- Season them right before cooking to avoid drawing out moisture too early.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, brown them in batches for even cooking.
- After browning, remember to let them rest for a few minutes before adding to the casserole. This keeps them juicy!
Smothered Pork Chop Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or your choice of melting cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Season both sides of the pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will add great flavor to the meat.
3. Brown the Pork Chops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the pork chops in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, take them out and set them aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and mushrooms. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it smells amazing!
5. Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir everything to coat. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Now, gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce thickens.
6. Add Herbs and Seasoning:
Stir in the thyme and sage, then taste your sauce. Add more salt and pepper if needed to make it just right.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
In a casserole dish, lay the browned pork chops in a single layer. Pour the creamy mushroom sauce evenly over the top.
8. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the entire casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy topping!
9. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You want the pork to be cooked through and the cheese to be bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. This dish is rich and tasty, and it pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or your favorite veggies!
Enjoy your cozy Smothered Pork Chop Casserole! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just adjust the cooking time, as they usually cook faster than bone-in chops. Check for doneness a few minutes earlier to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
To make it low-carb, skip the flour and use heavy cream with a low-carb milk substitute. You can also omit the mushrooms or replace them with spinach for added nutrients without the carbs!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the components up to the baking step and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just take it out to come to room temperature before popping it in the oven for baking.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to refresh the sauce as needed.