Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole – Comfort in Every Bite

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes rival the cozy appeal of Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole. This recipe takes tender pork chops and layers them with creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes, then smothers the dish in rich, flavorful gravy. The result is a one-pan wonder that’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday family gatherings.

With its golden cheese topping, tender pork, and creamy potatoes, this casserole strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and homestyle simplicity. It’s a recipe that’s approachable for beginners yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

Why This Casserole Is So Irresistible

• Flavor Layers: The pork, cheese, cream, and gravy complement each other beautifully.
• Ease of Prep: One casserole dish does it all, from oven to table.
• Visual Appeal: Golden brown cheese and bubbling sauce make it irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

This dish is all about cozy flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.

Ingredients That Make the Dish Shine

The secret to this recipe is simple: high-quality ingredients, sliced and layered thoughtfully.

• Boneless pork chops
• Thinly sliced potatoes
• Onion and garlic for depth
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, gruyere, or your favorite melting cheese)
• Butter, milk, and cream for richness
• Flour and seasoning to thicken and flavor the gravy
• Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley

Each ingredient adds a layer of flavor, creating a comforting and cohesive casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, sear pork chops for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned; remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft and fragrant.
4. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until a smooth, thick gravy forms. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the casserole dish. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes.
7. Place the seared pork chops on top of the potatoes.
8. Layer the remaining potatoes and pour the rest of the cream sauce over them.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly, and potatoes are tender.
11. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole

Tender pork chops layered with creamy scalloped potatoes, baked in rich cheese sauce and gravy.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Comfort Food, Dinner

Cuisine: American, Homestyle

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick
• 4 cups potatoes thinly sliced
• 1 onion sliced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or preferred cheese
• 2 tbsp flour
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme optional

Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Sear pork chops in a skillet 2–3 minutes per side; remove and set aside.
3. Sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft.
4. Stir in flour to make a roux, then gradually whisk in milk and cream to form gravy.
5. Layer half of the potatoes in the baking dish and pour half the cream sauce over them.
6. Place seared pork chops on top, then layer remaining potatoes and pour remaining sauce.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes; remove foil and bake 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
9. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Cheese and sauce will thicken slightly as casserole rests.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

• Slice potatoes thinly for even cooking.
• Partially cook pork chops before layering to ensure tenderness.
• Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.
• Let the casserole rest before serving to thicken the sauce.

These small steps make the difference between a good casserole and a standout comfort meal.

Variations to Try

Cheesy Herb Pork Bake
Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the cream sauce.

Smoky Twist
Include smoked paprika in the gravy for a subtle smoky flavor.

Vegetable Boost
Add thin slices of zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Potato Swap
Try Yukon Gold potatoes for creamier texture or russets for a fluffier finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with:

• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Fresh salad for a lighter contrast
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• A simple cranberry or apple chutney for a sweet balance

It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with seasonal sides.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheated gently in the oven.
• Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

This makes it perfect for meal prep or large family gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the initial pork sear (less flavorful and uneven cooking)
• Using thick potato slices (potatoes may remain undercooked)
• Overcrowding the dish (prevents even baking)
• Not resting the casserole before slicing (gravy may run)

Following these tips ensures a perfect, hearty dish every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Golden, cheesy, creamy, and indulgent
• Balanced textures of tender pork and soft scalloped potatoes
• One-dish simplicity
• Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or potlucks

Smothered Pork Chop and Scalloped Potato Casserole embodies comfort food at its finest. Rich, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, it’s the kind of dish that warms hearts and fills stomachs—every single time.