Pork Chop and Potato Casserole

Let’s face it, sometimes life gets busy, and whipping up a gourmet meal isn’t always an option. That’s where this classic comfort food recipe comes in: Pork Chop and Potato Casserole. It’s easy on the wallet, requires minimal prep work, and delivers a hearty, satisfying dish the whole family will love.

This casserole is a beautiful blend of textures and flavors. Tender, juicy pork chops nestled in a creamy mushroom sauce mingle with perfectly cooked potatoes and a touch of sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that takes just over an hour to prepare and cook, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend potlucks.

This blog post is your one-stop guide to creating the perfect Pork Chop and Potato Casserole. We’ll delve into the origins of this dish, explore recipe variations, offer tips and tricks for success, and even suggest some delicious side dishes to complete your meal.

A History of Comfort: Pork Chop and Potato Casserole

Casseroles have a long and storied history, dating back to ancient civilizations. The word “casserole” comes from the French word “casse,” which translates to “pan” or “pot.” Early casseroles were simple stews baked in earthenware dishes.

Over time, casseroles evolved to incorporate a wider variety of ingredients and cooking techniques. The invention of the casserole dish in the 19th century further popularized this convenient and versatile cooking method.

The 20th century saw a surge in casserole recipes, particularly in the United States. The post-war era, with its emphasis on convenience and affordability, made casseroles a staple in many households.

Pork Chop and Potato Casserole is a classic example of this American comfort food tradition. It utilizes readily available ingredients and delivers a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for feeding a family.

Pork Chop and Potato Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recipe, complete with helpful tips for each step:

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
6 boneless pork chops (around 1-inch thick)
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
4 potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/4-inch thick)
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pork Chops: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Tip: Using a meat mallet to gently pound the pork chops to a uniform thickness can help them cook more evenly.

Sear the Chops for Flavor: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the pork chops in batches if necessary.

Tip: Resist the urge to move the pork chops around too much while searing. Let them develop a nice brown crust before flipping.

Assemble the Casserole: While the pork chops rest on a plate, arrange the sliced potatoes in a single layer in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped onion evenly over the potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Tip: Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform potato slices that cook evenly.

Create the Creamy Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. You can use a whisk or an immersion blender to ensure the mixture is smooth.
Pour and Bake: Pour the creamy soup mixture over the potatoes and onions in the baking dish. Carefully arrange the browned pork chops on top of the potato layer.

Tip: If the casserole seems a bit dry, you can add an additional splash of milk or chicken broth.

The Cheese Melts: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake the casserole for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Golden Perfection: Bake the casserole uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tip: For an extra crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for the last minute or two of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Rest and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a cleaner cut and more flavorful dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color, if desired.

Beyond the Basics: Variations on a Theme

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. But don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are some ideas to personalize your Pork Chop and Potato Casserole:

Swap the Protein: While pork chops are the traditional choice, you can easily substitute other proteins like boneless chicken breasts, thin-cut steaks, or even tofu. Adjust the cooking time based on the chosen protein thickness.
Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat with diced jalapenos, cayenne pepper, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Veggie Power: Don’t limit yourself to potatoes! Incorporate other vegetables like chopped carrots, green beans, or broccoli. Saute them lightly before layering them in the casserole for even cooking.
Cheese Dreams: Explore different cheese options. Gruyere cheese adds a nutty flavor, while Monterey Jack offers a milder taste. You can even try a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Soup Swap: Don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand? Explore alternatives like cream of celery, cream of chicken, or even a lighter vegetable soup. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as some soups may be saltier than others.

Tips and Tricks for Casserole Perfection

Here are some additional pointers to ensure your Pork Chop and Potato Casserole turns out delicious every time:

Brown those Chops: Searing the pork chops adds depth of flavor and prevents them from drying out during baking.
Slice Matters: Aim for uniform thickness when slicing your potatoes. This ensures even cooking throughout the casserole.
Layering is Key: Arrange the potatoes and onions in a single layer to promote even browning and prevent steaming.
Don’t Skimp on the Milk: The milk helps to thin the soup and create a creamy sauce. If you find the casserole getting too thick while baking, add a splash or two of additional milk.
Cheese Timing: For perfectly melted cheese, add it during the last 30 minutes of baking.
Let it Rest: After removing the casserole from the oven, allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a cleaner cut and more flavorful dish.

Beyond the Casserole: The Perfect Sides

This casserole is a complete meal in itself, but sometimes you might want to round out your plate with some additional side dishes. Here are some suggestions to complement your Pork Chop and Potato Casserole:

A Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or broccoli brings out their natural sweetness and adds vibrant color to your meal.
Dinner Rolls: Warm dinner rolls are a perfect way to soak up the creamy sauce from the casserole.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing end to the meal and helps with digestion.

The Final Verdict: A Casserole Worth Repeating

Pork Chop and Potato Casserole is a timeless dish that offers comfort, flavor, and ease of preparation. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a little creativity and these helpful tips, you can create your own perfect version of this classic comfort food. So next time you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, give Pork Chop and Potato Casserole a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

705	Calories
47g	Fat
38g	Carbs
33g	Protein

Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 5
Calories 705
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 47g	60%
Saturated Fat 18g	89%
Cholesterol 123mg	41%
Sodium 636mg	28%
Total Carbohydrate 38g	14%
Dietary Fiber 4g	14%
Total Sugars 5g
Protein 33g	65%
Vitamin C 36mg	40%
Calcium 290mg	22%
Iron 3mg	18%
Potassium 1245mg	26%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.