Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a mouthwatering dinner recipe that combines juicy, flavorful pork chops with a decadent side of cheesy scalloped potatoes? You’re in the right place! Our Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. This recipe provides a wonderful balance of flavors with crispy, tender pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious dish, plus tips and tricks to perfect the recipe every time.

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What Are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a hearty, savory meal that pairs seasoned pork chops, coated in garlic and Parmesan, with rich, creamy scalloped potatoes layered with cheese. This dish combines classic ingredients with a flavorful twist, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or special occasions. Not only is it filling and delicious, but it’s also easy to make with simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry.

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Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops

To make the perfect Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients create a rich and flavorful coating for the pork chops, giving them a nice crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

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Ingredients List for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

To complement the pork chops, you’ll need these ingredients to make the cheesy scalloped potatoes:

• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (about ⅛ inch thick)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish

These ingredients will ensure your potatoes are rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness.

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Substitutions and Variations

Here are a few substitutions and variations to try if you want to customize your Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• Cheese: Substitute the cheddar cheese with gouda, mozzarella, or Gruyere for a different flavor in the scalloped potatoes.
• Meat: Swap pork chops for boneless chicken breasts or turkey chops if you prefer a lighter option.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give your pork chops a bit of heat.
• Cream: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the scalloped potatoes.
• Garlic: Roasted garlic can add a deeper flavor profile to both the pork chops and potatoes if you prefer a milder garlic taste.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the dish your own!

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the cooking process into simple steps so you can follow along with ease.

For the Pork Chops:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Make the Parmesan Coating: In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and olive oil.
4. Coat the Pork Chops: Spread the Parmesan mixture evenly over the pork chops, pressing down gently to ensure it sticks.
5. Sear the Pork Chops: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil, and sear each pork chop for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Bake: Place the seared pork chops on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

1. Grease Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Potatoes: Arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom of the dish.
3. Season and Add Cheese: Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and a layer of cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
4. Repeat Layers: Continue layering potatoes and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Add Cream: Pour heavy cream over the layered potatoes, allowing it to seep down through the layers.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

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How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking both components together is possible if you’re efficient with your time. Start with the scalloped potatoes, as they take a little longer, then move to the pork chops while the potatoes bake. This way, you’ll finish both at the same time for a perfectly timed dinner.

1. Begin with Potatoes: Prepare the cheesy scalloped potatoes first and place them in the oven.
2. Sear the Pork Chops: While the potatoes bake, coat and sear the pork chops.
3. Bake Together: Once the pork chops are seared, place them in the oven alongside the potatoes for the final 15-20 minutes.

By coordinating your cooking steps, you’ll save time and have everything ready at once!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pork Chops: Pork chops can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
2. Slicing Potatoes Too Thick: For even cooking, slice the potatoes as thinly as possible. Thick slices may remain undercooked.
3. Skipping the Searing Step: Searing the pork chops before baking enhances the flavor and texture. Don’t skip it!
4. Not Covering the Potatoes: Covering the scalloped potatoes for most of the baking time helps them cook evenly and stay moist.
5. Using Low-Fat Cream: Heavy cream creates the best texture for the potatoes. Using a low-fat substitute may result in a thinner, less creamy sauce.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate your dish to a restaurant-quality level. Here are some tips for serving and plating:

1. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pork chops for a pop of color.
2. Arrange Nicely: Serve the pork chop on one side of the plate and place a portion of scalloped potatoes next to it.
3. Use a Wide Plate: A wide plate allows you to spread out the components, showcasing each element.
4. Drizzle Sauce: If there’s extra sauce from the scalloped potatoes, drizzle it lightly around the dish for an elegant look.

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How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Serve this dish warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for added color and nutrients. This meal also pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir.

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Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Classic Plate: Arrange the pork chop and potatoes on a simple white plate to let the colors of the food stand out.
• Family Style: Serve the pork chops and scalloped potatoes in large platters for a shared, family-style meal.
• Garnish Board: Serve the dish on a wooden board with fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side for a rustic, appealing presentation.

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Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality Parmesan cheese will make a big difference in flavor.
2. Cook to Temperature: Avoid guesswork by using a thermometer for both the pork and the potatoes.
3. Let Pork Chops Rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in the juices.
4. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste as you go, especially with the potato layers, to make sure it’s seasoned to your liking.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the scalloped potatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when ready. The pork chops are best fresh, but you can prep the coating mixture beforehand.

2. Can I use boneless pork chops? Absolutely! Boneless pork chops work well, though they may cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

3. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.

4. Can I freeze scalloped potatoes? Yes, scalloped potatoes can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

5. What’s the best way to reheat this dish? Reheat the pork chops and potatoes in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to keep them from becoming soggy.

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Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make. With crispy, garlicky pork chops and creamy, cheesy potatoes, this recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion. Follow the step-by-step guide and tips provided to make the best version of this delicious meal. Don’t forget to experiment with the substitutions and presentation ideas to make it your own. Happy cooking and enjoy your hearty, homemade feast!

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