Are you craving a delicious, hearty meal that combines savory flavors with cheesy comfort? Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the perfect recipe for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also surprisingly easy to make. In this article, we'll guide you through each step, provide tips for cooking the perfect pork chops, and share ideas for serving and presentation. So, let’s dive into this recipe and create a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!

What Are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a comforting and flavorful meal made with tender pork chops, seasoned with garlic and Parmesan cheese, paired with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes. The combination of juicy pork, a crispy Parmesan crust, and creamy potatoes is absolutely irresistible. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

For the pork chops, you'll need:

4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Ingredients List for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

For the scalloped potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

4 medium potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or Russet), thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (whole milk works best)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

Potatoes: Feel free to use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on flavor and added nutrients.
Cheese: Swap the cheddar with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheesy taste in your scalloped potatoes.
Spices: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning to the pork chops for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Method: If you prefer, cook the pork chops in the air fryer for a crispier, healthier option.

These substitutions allow you to customize the dish to your preferences or dietary needs, without sacrificing flavor!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through each part of this recipe to ensure everything turns out perfectly.

Prepare the Pork Chop Coating: In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the flour in a separate shallow dish, and the beaten egg in another dish.
Coat the Pork Chops: Dredge each pork chop in the flour, dip it in the egg, and then press it into the Parmesan mixture until well-coated.
Sear the Pork Chops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened. Stir in the flour, then slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Add salt, pepper, and thyme, and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in half the shredded cheddar cheese.
Layer the Potatoes and Cheese Sauce: Grease a baking dish, then layer half of the potato slices on the bottom. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Layer the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the sauce.
Add Cheddar and Parmesan: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
Bake the Scalloped Potatoes: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Bake the Pork Chops: Place the seared pork chops on top of the scalloped potatoes for the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will help to meld the flavors together.
Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking the perfect Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops is simple with these tips:

Choose Boneless Pork Chops: Boneless chops are easier to cook evenly. Aim for chops about 1 inch thick.
Season Generously: Use a mix of Parmesan and spices to create a flavorful crust.
Sear First, Then Bake: Searing locks in the juices and creates a golden crust, while baking ensures the pork is cooked through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Overcooking the Pork Chops: Pork can dry out quickly. Sear for a short time and finish in the oven to keep them juicy.
Slicing Potatoes Too Thickly: Thick potato slices take longer to cook and may not soften fully. Aim for thin, even slices.
Skipping the Cheese Sauce: The sauce is essential for creamy scalloped potatoes. Don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

To elevate the presentation of this dish, try these tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color.
Use a Large Platter: Serving the pork chops and scalloped potatoes on a large platter allows everyone to help themselves.
Add a Side Salad: A fresh green salad pairs well with the richness of the pork and potatoes.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

This dish is best served fresh from the oven. Here’s how to serve it:

Place each pork chop on a plate.
Scoop a generous portion of cheesy scalloped potatoes next to the pork chop.
Garnish with a sprig of parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

Make this meal a visual delight with these presentation ideas:

Layer the Pork Chops on Top of Potatoes: For a family-style serving, arrange the pork chops on top of the scalloped potatoes in a casserole dish.
Serve in Individual Casserole Dishes: For a personal touch, serve each portion in small individual dishes.
Add Color with Garnishes: Use green herbs or a sprinkle of paprika to add contrast and color.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips for making the best Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

Preheat Your Skillet: A hot skillet helps the pork chops sear perfectly.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often has additives that prevent melting, so fresh Parmesan is best.
Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, bake them and add the pork chops in the last few minutes.

Q: What should I do if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
A: You can substitute Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano, but it may alter the taste slightly.

Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
A: Yes, but they may require additional cooking time. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: The pork chops freeze well, but scalloped potatoes may become watery when reheated. It’s best to consume within a couple of days.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a crowd-pleasing, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe balances the juicy, savory pork with rich, cheesy potatoes, creating a meal that’s sure to become a favorite. With easy step-by-step instructions, tips for avoiding common mistakes, and ideas for serving, you’ll have no trouble making this delicious dish. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this comforting recipe with family and friends – it’s bound to be a hit!

Ready to make this dish? Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!