Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole

Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole (Hearty One-Pan Comfort Meal)

If you’re craving a rich, filling, homestyle dinner, this Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is exactly what you need. Tender, pan-seared pork chops are baked on a bed of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy onion gravy, and melted cheese to create a cozy, satisfying one-dish meal.

This casserole combines the flavors of classic smothered pork chops with creamy scalloped potatoes, making it perfect for family dinners, Sunday suppers, or anytime you want comfort food that feels special without being complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pork chop casserole is a favorite because it is:

• A complete meal baked in one dish

• Rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful

• Perfect for feeding a family

• Budget-friendly and filling

• Great for make-ahead dinners

• Comfort food that never disappoints

Every bite delivers juicy pork, tender potatoes, and savory onion gravy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pork Chop Casserole

• 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups milk

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large casserole dish or baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This helps build flavor from the start.

Step 3: Brown the Pork Chops

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set aside. They will finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Cook the Onions and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste and form a roux.

Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy gravy.
Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Step 6: Layer the Potatoes

In the prepared casserole dish, arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer, slightly overlapping them like shingles.

Step 7: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour half of the onion gravy over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 8: Repeat the Layers

Add the remaining potatoes on top, followed by the remaining sauce and cheese. Sprinkle the top evenly with paprika for color and mild flavor.

Step 9: Add the Pork Chops

Place the browned pork chops on top of the layered potatoes, gently pressing them slightly into the sauce.

Step 10: Bake Covered

Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. This allows the potatoes to become tender and the pork chops to cook through.

Step 11: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until:

• Pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)

• Potatoes are fork-tender

• The top is lightly golden and bubbly

Step 12: Rest and Garnish

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips for Best Results

• Slice potatoes very thin so they cook evenly

• Bone-in pork chops stay juicier than boneless

• Don’t skip browning the pork—it adds deep flavor

• If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of milk or broth

• For extra cheese lovers, add more cheddar during the last 10 minutes

Variations & Substitutions

• Cheese options: Swap cheddar for Colby-Jack, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella

• Add vegetables: Layer in mushrooms or sliced bell peppers

• Extra flavor: Add thyme or rosemary to the sauce

• Boneless option: Use thick boneless pork chops and reduce uncovered bake time slightly

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F or microwave until heated through

• Freezing: Freeze after baking for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work best for scalloped casseroles.

Is this a complete meal?
Yes, but it pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Final Thoughts

This Smothered Pork Chop Scalloped Potato Casserole is classic comfort food at its best. Juicy pork chops, creamy potatoes, and savory onion gravy all baked together create a satisfying, family-friendly meal that feels both hearty and homemade.

enjoy!