A Smothered Pork Chops Casserole combines tender pork chops, a creamy gravy, and comforting sides like potatoes or rice, all baked together in one dish. It’s a hearty, soul-warming meal perfect for any occasion.
Smothered Pork Chops Casserole Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or sour cream for tang)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (peeled, or use frozen hash browns)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season and Sear:
- Pat the pork chops dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown (they don’t need to be cooked through). Remove and set aside.
Make the Gravy:
- Sauté Veggies:
- In the same skillet, add the onions and mushrooms (if using). Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute to cook out the raw taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the Dish:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the potatoes evenly. Pour half of the gravy over the potatoes.
- Place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes. Pour the remaining gravy over the pork chops.
- Optional Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for extra richness.
Bake:
- Cook:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the pork chops are fully cooked (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
- Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot, paired with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
- Add veggies: Include layers of spinach, green beans, or broccoli for a more balanced meal.
- Use rice: Substitute potatoes with cooked white rice for a different twist.
This Smothered Pork Chops Casserole is sure to become a family favorite! Let me know if you’d like suggestions for variations.
