Looking to wow your family with a meal that's both comforting and packed with flavor? This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe combines tender, juicy pork chops with creamy, cheesy potatoes for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Follow along for the best way to make this delightful dinner, complete with tips, variations, and answers to common questions. Read on for all the details to make this recipe a surefire hit!

What are Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes?
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is a delicious, savory dish that brings together the earthy flavor of garlic, the rich taste of Parmesan cheese, and the comfort of creamy potatoes. The pork chops are seasoned and seared until golden brown, then topped with a crispy Parmesan crust, while the potatoes are layered with cheese and cream, creating a decadent side dish that perfectly complements the pork. This meal is perfect for a family dinner, weekend gathering, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops
- Pork Chops – 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated
- Breadcrumbs – ¼ cup (panko breadcrumbs work well for extra crunch)
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
- Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Paprika – ½ teaspoon (optional, for color and flavor)
Ingredients List for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Potatoes – 4 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup
- Whole Milk – ½ cup
- Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Mozzarella Cheese – ½ cup, shredded
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Flour – 2 tablespoons (for thickening the sauce)
- Garlic Powder – ½ teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – for garnish
Substitutions and Variations
- Pork Chops: If you prefer, you can use boneless pork chops, but adjust the cooking time as boneless chops cook faster. You could also use chicken breasts as a substitute.
- Parmesan Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese for a slightly different flavor.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes add a creamier texture, while russet potatoes are starchier. Use whichever you prefer!
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Gouda, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack can add different layers of flavor.
- Seasonings: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the pork chops for a spicy kick, or include fresh rosemary in the potatoes for a herbaceous note.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

For the Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops:
- Prepare the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Make the Parmesan Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and breadcrumbs.
- Sear the Pork Chops: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear each pork chop for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Top with Parmesan Mixture: Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them on a baking sheet. Spread the Parmesan mixture on top of each chop.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pork chops for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese is golden and crispy and the pork chops are cooked through (internal temperature should be 145°F).
For the Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the Potatoes: In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes. Pour a portion of the cheese sauce over the layer, and continue layering until all potatoes and sauce are used.
- Bake the Potatoes: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep the Ingredients: Gather and prepare all ingredients before you start cooking to ensure smooth cooking.
- Sear and Bake the Pork Chops: Searing first locks in juices, while baking with the Parmesan topping adds a flavorful, crispy crust.
- Make the Cheese Sauce for Potatoes: Cooking the flour and butter first helps thicken the sauce without any lumps.
- Layer the Potatoes: Ensure even layers so that each slice gets coated in sauce, for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Bake Until Golden: Finishing the dish uncovered helps develop that golden-brown, cheesy crust on top.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Pork Chops: Pork can easily dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you don’t exceed 145°F for juicy, tender chops.
- Uneven Potato Slices: Slice potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure they cook at the same rate. A mandoline slicer can help with this.
- Too Much or Too Little Sauce: Ensure your sauce isn’t too thick or too thin. It should coat the back of a spoon smoothly, which ensures a creamy texture for the scalloped potatoes.
- Skipping the Searing Step: Searing adds flavor and helps lock in moisture, so don’t skip this step with the pork chops!
Serving and Presentation Tips
This dish is hearty and indulgent, so consider pairing it with lighter sides for balance. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli can be great complements. The bright greens add a pop of color to the plate, enhancing the visual appeal and balancing out the richness of the meal.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Serve each pork chop with a generous scoop of scalloped potatoes on the side. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for added freshness and color. Serve hot and fresh from the oven for the best texture and flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
- Family Style: Place the pork chops on a platter and the scalloped potatoes in a large, deep serving dish. This makes it easy for guests to serve themselves and creates a cozy, family-style feel.
- Individual Plates: Arrange one pork chop and a side of scalloped potatoes on each plate. Garnish with chopped parsley and a few shavings of fresh Parmesan for an elegant touch.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary sprigs or thyme on the plate can add a lovely visual element and a hint of aroma.
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe Tips
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan can be dry and doesn’t melt as well. Freshly grated Parmesan gives a better texture and flavor.
- Slicing Potatoes: Use a mandoline slicer for thin, even potato slices. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the sauce well.
- Add More Garlic for Extra Flavor: If you’re a garlic lover, consider adding an extra clove or two to the pork chops or even into the scalloped potato sauce.
- Let the Dish Rest: After baking, let the scalloped potatoes rest for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve without spilling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the scalloped potatoes a few hours in advance, cover with foil, and store them in the fridge until ready to bake. For the pork chops, you can season and sear them ahead, but it’s best to add the Parmesan topping just before baking.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
The pork chops can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. For the scalloped potatoes, the texture may change slightly upon freezing, but they can also be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.
3. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, covering the potatoes with foil to prevent drying out.
4. Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
It’s best to use raw potatoes in this recipe, as pre-cooked potatoes may become too soft and lose their structure when baked in the cheese sauce.
5. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with Gruyere, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack for a bit of spice.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food meal that brings both flavor and satisfaction to the table. With crispy, cheesy pork chops and creamy, indulgent potatoes, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Follow these steps, tips, and variations to create a dish that's bound to impress. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal, and don’t forget to garnish and serve it with love!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Pork Chops With Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops with Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a delicious, comforting, and satisfying dish. Tender pork chops are coated in a garlic-parmesan crust, then baked to perfection alongside creamy scalloped potatoes for a flavorful one-pan meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this hearty combination is packed with rich flavors and simple ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Pork Chops: Bone-in or boneless pork chops
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for best flavor
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic
- Butter: Melted, for extra richness
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Thinly sliced for scalloped potatoes
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded, for creamy potato topping
- Heavy Cream: To add creaminess to potatoes
- Thyme: Fresh or dried for added aroma and taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Pork Chops: Season pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic, and grated Parmesan. Coat each side well.
- Cook Pork Chops: In a skillet, sear the pork chops in melted butter until golden brown. Set aside.
- Prepare Scalloped Potatoes: Layer thinly sliced potatoes in a baking dish. Season, and pour heavy cream over the layers. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Combine and Bake: Arrange the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes. Sprinkle with thyme. Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. Uncover for the last 10 minutes for a golden, bubbly top.
- Serve: Let rest briefly and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of paprika on the pork chops.
- Adjust cheese to your preference; mozzarella can be added for a meltier texture.
- Use a mandoline to thinly slice potatoes for even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580 mg
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