Savory Pork Chop Casserole Recipe
Looking for a dish that effortlessly combines juicy pork chops with cheesy goodness? This savory pork chop casserole delivers just that! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal with minimal fuss. Plus, using pork chops as the star ingredient guarantees a flavorful experience that your family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sear the Pork Chops: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are browned but not fully cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Casserole Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread the prepared mashed potatoes as the base. Lay the seared pork chops over the mashed potatoes. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the pork chops.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and turn golden.
- Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
This recipe is an excellent addition to your dinner ideas, presenting an easy way to prepare tasty pork chop recipes. Each bite of this casserole will remind you of cozy family dinners, and the best part? It’s all baked together in one dish, so cleanup is a breeze!
Delicious Pork Chop Casserole for Effortless Dinners
This hearty pork chop casserole is a delightful way to combine juicy pork chops with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese.
Layering these flavorful components creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting, making it an excellent option for family meal times.
When you’re looking for easy recipes to try out, this pork chop casserole stands out among popular pork chop recipes, offering a simple yet delicious solution for busy weeknights.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients needed for the casserole.
You’ll require pork chops, prepared mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and a few seasonings. This straightforward list allows for a quick dinner prep.
Don’t forget to have fresh parsley on hand for a touch of garnish that enhances the dish’s presentation.
Cooking the Pork Chops
The first step in making this casserole involves searing the pork chops to lock in their juices.
By seasoning the chops with garlic and onion powder, along with salt and pepper, you ensure that they are flavorful from the start.
Searing them for just a few minutes on each side gives a golden crust, which ultimately adds depth to the casserole as it bakes.
Assembling the Casserole
Once the pork chops are seared, it’s time to assemble your dish.
Start by spreading the creamy mashed potatoes evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish.
Carefully layer the seared pork chops on top, followed by the soup mixture that will keep the entire casserole moist and flavorful while it bakes.
The Melty Cheese Topping
No casserole is complete without a generous layer of melted cheese.
Sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole not only adds richness but also a delightful texture contrast once baked.
This cheesy layer melts and browns beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Baking and Serving
Covering the casserole with aluminum foil helps it cook evenly and retain moisture during the first part of the baking process.
After the initial baking time, removing the foil allows the cheese to melt and turn a lovely golden color.
Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
Delicious Pork Chop Casserole for Effortless Dinners
This pork chop casserole features tender, juicy pork chops layered over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes and topped with melted cheese. The combination of flavors creates a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
FAQ:
Q: What are some easy pork chop casserole ideas for a weeknight dinner?
A: Think simple! Combine pork chops with rice, potatoes, or pasta, and a creamy sauce (like cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cheese sauce). Add some veggies like onions, peppers, or green beans for a complete meal.
Q: How do I keep pork chops juicy in a casserole?
A: Browning the pork chops before adding them to the casserole helps seal in the juices. You can also use a thicker cut of pork chop, or even bone-in chops for extra flavor and moisture. Adding a sauce or liquid to the casserole also prevents them from drying out.
Q: What is the best cut of pork chop for a casserole?
A: Bone in will always yield more flavor. However, a thick cut boneless chop will also work well, and be easier to eat. Either way, make sure to use a thicker chop, no matter the cut, as thinner chops will dry out much more easily.
