When it comes to hearty, comforting meals that bring the family together, few dishes rival the classic combination of pork chops and potatoes. The savory richness of pork paired with the creamy decadence of a cheesy potato bake is a match made in culinary heaven. This recipe for Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake offers a delightful fusion of flavors that is both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this dish features juicy, flavorful pork chops enhanced by a luxurious garlic butter sauce. Accompanying them is a cheesy potato bake, layered with tender potatoes, caramelized onions, and melted cheddar cheese. The entire meal is cooked to perfection in the oven, ensuring that every bite is packed with warmth and deliciousness.
Beyond its delicious taste, this recipe is versatile and adaptable. You can customize it to suit your preferences or accommodate dietary restrictions, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, Garlic Butter Pork Chops with Cheesy Potato Bake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Pork Chops:
4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
For the Cheesy Potato Bake:
4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom.
Top the potatoes with half of the cooked onions and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese, ensuring even distribution for consistent flavor throughout the dish.
3. Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and sour cream.
Cook over medium heat until the mixture is warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling.
Pour the milk and sour cream mixture evenly over the layered potatoes in the baking dish.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften.
4. Cook the Pork Chops
While the potatoes are baking, season the pork chops with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the pork chops and sear them until they are golden brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. This searing process locks in the juices and enhances the flavor of the pork chops.
Once browned, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
5. Prepare the Garlic Butter
In the same skillet used for the pork chops, add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt it over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme sprigs, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Return the pork chops to the skillet, spooning the aromatic garlic butter sauce over them to ensure they are thoroughly coated with flavor.
6. Combine and Bake
Remove the foil from the potato dish in the oven.
Place the browned pork chops on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.
Pour the garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the pork chops and potatoes, allowing the rich flavors to seep into every layer.
Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops are cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve
Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and the cheese to firm slightly.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness, if desired.
Serve the pork chops alongside the cheesy potato bake for a complete, mouthwatering meal.