Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Are you looking for a mouthwatering recipe that's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion? Look no further! This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe combines two comfort food classics into a hearty, flavor-packed meal that will leave your family and guests asking for seconds. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious dish with step-by-step instructions, tips for variations, and ways to avoid common cooking mistakes!

What are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops are succulent cuts of pork, seasoned with garlic and coated in a crispy Parmesan crust. Paired with cheesy, creamy scalloped potatoes, this meal is the ultimate comfort food. The richness of the Parmesan cheese complements the natural flavors of the pork, while the cheesy potatoes provide a satisfying and hearty side that pairs perfectly. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

To make these delicious Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops, you will need:

• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 inch thick)
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best for maximum flavor)
• ½ cup of breadcrumbs (Panko works great for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for pan-frying)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional, for extra garlic flavor)

Ingredients List for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

For the cheesy scalloped potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch thick)
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella)
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups of heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 3 tablespoons of flour (for the roux)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon of dried thyme (or fresh thyme, if available)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to change things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are some substitution ideas and variations:

1. Pork Chops: You can substitute pork chops with chicken breasts or thighs for a similar preparation. Simply adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
2. Cheese: While Parmesan and cheddar are ideal, feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
3. Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes or sweet potatoes can replace russet potatoes, offering a slightly different texture and flavor.
4. Low-Carb: Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour and swap out the potatoes for cauliflower to create a lower-carb version of this meal.
5. Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or even cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. By following these instructions, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of crispy, juicy pork chops and rich, creamy potatoes.

For the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when the pork chops and potatoes need to be baked.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge the Pork Chops: Dip each pork chop in the beaten eggs, ensuring both sides are coated. Then press the pork chops into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on both sides.
4. Pan-Fry the Pork Chops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. The goal is to crisp up the coating without fully cooking the chops (they will finish cooking in the oven).
5. Bake the Pork Chops: Transfer the browned pork chops to a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven (if you haven’t already): Ensure the oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and slice the potatoes thinly (about ⅛ inch thick) using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute, creating a roux. Gradually add the cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
4. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Dish: Grease a baking dish and arrange a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom. Pour some of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes and sauce.
6. Bake the Potatoes: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pork Chops: Overcooking will result in dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy pork chops.
2. Slicing Potatoes Too Thick: Thick slices of potato will take longer to cook and may result in uneven texture. Stick to thin, even slices for best results.
3. Skipping the Roux for the Potatoes: A roux (butter and flour mixture) helps to thicken the sauce. Skipping this step could lead to runny or separated cheese sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This dish is visually appealing and satisfying, but how you serve and present it can elevate the dining experience. Follow these tips for a beautifully plated meal:

• Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the pork chops and potatoes for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Stack the Potatoes: Serve the scalloped potatoes in neat stacks rather than a scoop for a more elegant presentation.
• Use a Platter: Arrange the pork chops on a large serving platter with the potatoes on the side for a family-style meal that’s both rustic and stylish.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

For a complete meal, pair Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with a green vegetable like sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad. The combination of the rich, cheesy potatoes and the bright, fresh greens will balance out the meal perfectly.

Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To make this dish look as good as it tastes:

• White Plates: Serve on white or neutral-colored plates to make the golden crust on the pork chops and cheesy topping on the potatoes stand out.
• Individual Casserole Dishes: If you want to get fancy, serve the scalloped potatoes in individual ramekins or mini-casserole dishes for a more personal touch.
• Layered Look: Serve the pork chop on top of a small pile of scalloped potatoes for a restaurant-style presentation.

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the scalloped potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to bake, simply bring the dish to room temperature and pop it in the oven.
• Crispy Pork Chops: For extra crispy pork chops, broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking process.
• Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as adding some blue cheese crumbles to the scalloped potatoes for a bolder flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
A: Yes, boneless pork chops work well, but keep in mind they may cook a little faster than bone-in chops. Watch the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I make the scalloped potatoes ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes and assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat pork chops and potatoes in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes to maintain their texture. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the pork chops may lose some of their crispiness.

Q: Can I freeze scalloped potatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the potatoes after baking them. Let them cool completely, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is the perfect combination of crispy, savory pork and rich, creamy potatoes. With step-by-step instructions, tips for substitutions and variations, and common mistakes to avoid, you’ll have no trouble impressing your family or guests with this delightful meal. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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